Chai Lifeline Supporting Families Impacted by LA Wildfires

As wildfires continue to devastate the Palisades and greater Los Angles area in California, Chai Lifeline has been tirelessly responding to the needs of families and individuals affected by the crisis. From evacuations to the heartbreaking loss of homes, Chai Lifeline is providing support, guidance, and resources to bring relief during this challenging time.

“Our crisis intervention team has received an outpouring of calls from families, friends, and concerned community members seeking assistance for loved ones who have been forced to evacuate or lost their homes entirely,” says Randi Grossman, Chai Lifeline West Coast Director. “The scope of the devastation is immense, with many children rushed from their homes as the fires spread rapidly, leaving behind uncertainty and fear.”

In collaboration with the Chabad of Palisades, Chai Lifeline is addressing the emotional toll on the community by hosting an emergency Zoom session featuring Dr. Dovid Fox, a forensic and clinical psychologist and the Director of Chai Lifeline Crisis Services, which provides intervention for communities dealing with crisis and trauma. The session aimed to help families cope with the fear of unknown outcomes, the stress of evacuations, and the grief of loss. Dr. Fox has experience explaining how to properly reassure younger children and how to promote healthy coping mechanisms.

“The emotional trauma extends far beyond physical destruction,” says Dr. Fox. “We are working to provide a safe space where individuals can express their fears, receive guidance, and begin the process of healing.”

Chai Lifeline recognizes that many are grappling with the unknown—unsure whether their homes have been destroyed or will survive the ongoing fires. Families are not only mourning material losses but are also deeply concerned about their loved ones’ safety.

Chai Lifeline encourages anyone affected by the Palisades wildfires to contact its Crisis Services Department at 855-3-CRISIS or [email protected].

Chai Lifeline is an international organization dedicated to supporting families and individuals facing crises, providing critical resources, and fostering resilience. They run a variety of programs for children, their families, and their communities who are suffering from critical illness and tragedy. Their services include counseling, comprehensive financial and medical advice, and crisis intervention. Chai Lifeline stands with communities in their time of need.

For more information about Chai Lifeline and its programs, visit www.chailifeline.org