From the national setting and Global H.O.P.E.:
When disaster strikes, the United Church of Christ responds. Together, we can show God’s love in action.
Thank you for standing with California’s communities during this time of unreal hardship. Your generosity will make a difference as 100% of your donation will go directly to disaster relief efforts.
On January 7, 2025, wildfire activity began in Los Angeles County, California. The Disaster Ministries Team and other staff at the National Setting of the United Church of Christ continue to be in communication with the Southern California and Nevada Conference to monitor the situation and determine how best to support communities at this time.
The devastation caused by the California wildfires has left countless families without homes, communities in mourning, and landscapes forever changed. As the smoke clears, the work of recovery begins—and it’s a long road ahead.
The fires destroyed the buildings of Altadena Community Church, United Church of Christ. See the update on their Facebook page. Please keep them in your prayers as well as their 15 members and close associates who have lost their homes.
To support the long-term recovery of those affected by the California Wildfires, click here.
Or use our SWC portal.
You can also mail a check payable to the Southwest Conference United Church of Christ, PO Box 44968, Phoenix AZ 85064-4968. Please be sure to note "California Wildfires 2025" in the memo section of your check. Our EIN: 86-0200170
100% of your donation will go directly to disaster relief efforts. Every gift matters. Please give today.
You may also act by assembling Hygiene Kits and Cleanup Buckets. After a disaster, one of the biggest requests is for cleanup buckets and hygiene kits. UCC congregations interested in assembling hygiene kits and cleanup buckets are eligible for a matching grant through the Global HOPE office.
"A Prayer for Those in the Path of Fire" by Rev. Shari Prestemon
"Steadfast God, we watch in horror as fires rage in Southern California, and we pause to raise these humble petitions to you.
For all those forced to evacuate, who leave so much that is precious behind and know not what the future holds, surround them with your gentle presence in these hours of tortured worry and waiting.
For each beloved one who has already realized the unfathomable loss of everything familiar, of homes and schools and places of worship and so much more that was their anchor and community, receive their shock and overwhelming grief and hold them close in love.
For those called out to fight the flames, to rescue and to help, for those tasked with leading through the crisis, for hospitals that receive the wounded, and for all those extending care even while they themselves have suffered loss, grant the capacity to withstand all that overwhelms and wearies.
And in the uncertain days to come, draw near to all who weep and rage as they begin to sift through the rubble and ash left behind. Stir bits of hope amid despair. Lend strength when exhaustion overtakes them. May they be wrapped in a blanket of grace and healing woven by each act of compassion and generosity we now extend.
O God, in your wide and tender mercy, hear our fervent prayers. Amen."