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LOS
ANGELES, Jan. 23, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The YMCA of
Metropolitan Los Angeles (LA Y), with the support of Southern
California Gas Co. (SoCalGas), is expanding its commitment to
providing ongoing critical resources to communities recovering from
the recent wildfires in Southern
California.
SoCalGas is providing a $400,000
donation to the LA Y towards its Eaton fire response to support the
immediate and long-term needs of the community as residents begin
to navigate the next stages of this crisis. SoCalGas' donation
helps expand access to the LA Y's critical resources such as
extended hours of operation; free community access for all LA Y's
amenities (showers, Wi-Fi, food, water, and essential items); free
childcare for children of first responders, essential workers, and
children of families who were displaced, evacuated, or who
otherwise experienced loss; and access to Teen Centers. For
additional information about how to access services, visit
www.ymcala.org.
"As soon as evacuation orders were lifted and residents began
returning to the area, the LA Y ensured all of our Centers for
Community Well Being were open to provide essential services to all
impacted," said Victor Dominguez,
president and chief executive officer of the YMCA of Metropolitan
Los Angeles. "Recovery will be a long journey for many in our
community, and our centers are here to provide ongoing support
every step of the way. We are committed to ensuring that impacted
individuals and families have access to the services they need—not
just today, but for the long road ahead."
In addition to its financial contribution, 100 SoCalGas
employees are volunteering at the Pasadena-Sierra Madre Y to
organize thousands of pounds of community donations. Anyone
affected by the fire can come to 611 E. Sierra Madre Blvd. to get
food, water, clothes, personal hygiene items, and other goods that
can aid their recovery.
"The pain and loss being felt in this community makes our hearts
grieve. In times like these, it is important that we help the
pillars and foundations of the community come together, which is
why we support the YMCA of Metropolitan Los Angeles," said
Maryam Brown, chief executive
officer of SoCalGas. "They are here, they are on the ground, they
are your neighbor, and so are we."
"I am moved by our community's strength in the face of the Eaton
fire," said Victor M. Gordo,
Pasadena mayor. "The partnership
between the YMCA of Metropolitan Los Angeles and SoCalGas
exemplifies the spirit of collaboration and support that defines
our community. This generous donation and dedicated volunteers are
a testament to our shared commitment to helping those affected
rebuild their lives. Together, we can ensure that every resident
has access to the resources and support they need during this
time."
Supervisor Kathryn Barger
emphasized the importance of community partnerships during
emergencies. "As thousands of residents have endured destruction
and displacement, I'm heartened by the compassion and care so many
community organizations have shown them in their time of need. I'm
thankful to the YMCA and SoCalGas for extending a helping hand and
illustrating a collaborative spirit. We truly are stronger
together, and the last two weeks have shown us the power of
government, individuals, nonprofits, and private partners uniting
for the common good," Supervisor Barger said.
The LA Y, with support from SoCalGas, will continue to provide
essential resources and support services to help individuals and
families in the recovery process to ensure people have the help
they need to rebuild and move forward.
If you would like to support the LA Y wildfire relief effort,
please visit ymcala.org/community-response to learn about how to
make a financial contribution, donate the most needed supplies, or
volunteer your time.
Most needed items include:
- Hygiene kits and toiletries (new items only)
- Diabetic-friendly food, instant coffee, powder creamer, baby
formula, peanut butter/jelly, cereal
- Reusable bags/grocery bags
- Luggage
- Sleeping equipment (blankets, sleeping bags, air
mattresses)
- Air purifiers
- Heaters
- Please note that clothing donations are not needed at this
time.
For information about SoCalGas services, please visit
socalgas.com/fires and socalgas.com/edr.
About SoCalGas
SoCalGas is the largest gas distribution utility in the United States serving approximately 21
million consumers across approximately 24,000 square miles of
Central and Southern California.
SoCalGas is a recognized leader in its industry and community, as
demonstrated by being named one of Reuters' Top 100 Innovators
Leading the Global Energy Transition and Corporate Member of the
Year by the Los Angeles Chamber of
Commerce. SoCalGas is a subsidiary of Sempra (NYSE: SRE), a leading
North American energy infrastructure company. For more information,
visit SoCalGas.com/newsroom or connect with SoCalGas on social
media @SoCalGas.
About YMCA of Metropolitan Los Angeles
The LA Y is the Center for Community Well-Being in Los Angeles, committed to building stronger
communities by providing equitable programs and services to empower
all. We are focused on fighting food insecurity, providing equity
in education, making sure every child has the opportunity to
experience the joy of sports, ensuring kids and teens have a safe
place to grow, learn and live a healthy lifestyle. The LA Y's
health and wellness initiatives offer medical and mental health
resources to ensure everyone has access to basic health needs. Our
mission is to provide services and resources that contribute to the
well-being of our community. Visit ymcaLA.org for more information.
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SOURCE Southern California Gas Company