FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 10, 2025
Katie Vavao, Katie.Vavao@CaliforniaVolunteers.ca.gov, (916) 584-3620
Christina Bragg, ChristinaBragg@ymcala.org, (213) 440-8643
California Service Corps Deploying with YMCA Los Angeles to Provide Critical Disaster Response
What you need to know: California Service Corps members are partnering with YMCA LA to support families directly affected by the Southern California wildfires.
LOS ANGELES, Calif. — Today, California Volunteers, Office of the Governor and YMCA Los Angeles announced California Service Corps members are partnering with the YMCA to provide critical support to those impacted by the Southern California fires. These efforts are a part of the statewide coordinated response. Local YMCA centers have become temporary evacuation sites, offering shelter, showers and basic amenities. They will continue to serve as distribution and staging area for emergency personnel.
“To those impacted by these devastating fires — you are not alone. To those who are safe and can help, we need you,” said GO-Serve Director and California Chief Service Officer Josh Fryday.
California Chief Service Officer Josh Fryday chats with a volunteer at the YMCA helping with spring clothes.
The YMCA is currently seeking volunteers and donations.
- To find a donation site and list of needs, visit ymcala.org/actnow.
- For other donation inquiries, contact CelinaSantiago@ymcaLA.org.
- To volunteer, contact AshleyBerg@ymcaLA.org.
To find volunteer opportunities in your community, join CaliforniansForAll.ca.gov.
Many state and community leaders were on-site to share this important announcement and additional community resources, including State Assemblymember Mark Gonzales and YMCA Los Angeles President and CEO Victor Dominguez.
California Chief Service Officer Josh Fryday joined community leaders and volunteers at Friday’s announcement.
Additional YMCA community services include:
- Free childcare for those directly affected by the fires.
- Collecting donations.
- Mental health support.
- Free day-passes for non-affected locations.
- Basic necessities, such as charging phones, fresh water, etc.
- Licensed social workers to help connect people with resources.
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About California Volunteers, Office of the Governor
Led by California Chief Service Officer Josh Fryday, California Volunteers, Office of the Governor empowers Californians to take action to improve their communities. California Volunteers is the state office tasked with recruiting Californians to engage in public service.
