On Friday, Jan. 10, 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 in the southern part of the state 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.

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.

Many state and community leaders were on-site to share this announcement on Friday and report on additional community resources, including State Assemblymember Mark Gonzales and YMCA Los Angeles President and CEO Victor Dominguez.

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.

To find volunteer opportunities in your community, join CaliforniansForAll.ca.gov.

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.