Shluchim Report From the Front Lines Amid California Wildfire Crisis

Report from the front lines of the California Wildfires by the Chabad Shluchim in Pasadena, CA, Rabbi Chaim Hanoka and Rabbi Zushi Rivkin:

A Blaze Ignites and Spreads Rapidly

On Tuesday evening, at approximately 6:00 p.m., a fire broke out in one of the canyons nestled in the foothills just three miles north of our Chabad House. Fueled by fierce wind conditions, the fire spread with alarming speed, even by California wildfire standards. Within two hours, a quarter of our community faced mandatory evacuation orders, triggering a massive exodus that clogged the streets heading south—the primary route away from the fire and toward safety.

Immediate Action: Ensuring Shelter for All

As the chaos unfolded, our first priority was to ensure that every community member had a safe place to stay. We quickly organized “shidduchim” between those forced to evacuate from the north and community members living further south, away from the fire’s path. The Chabad House, strategically located in the middle of these areas, became a critical hub for coordinating relief efforts. Many evacuees found refuge at the Chabad House itself, while others were hosted in the homes of our shluchim or generous community members.

Adapting to Evolving Needs

By Wednesday morning, it became evident that shelter alone wasn’t enough. Families needed food, water, and a safe, welcoming space to decompress. Recognizing this, we opened the doors of the Chabad House even wider. Parents with children—many of whom were confined to hotel rooms—found a place to gather, connect, and regain a sense of normalcy.

Our preschool, though technically “closed” due to the crisis, transformed into an impromptu community center. Parents brought their children to the familiar, child-friendly space, where we provided meals and a nurturing environment. This became a sanctuary for families to escape the stress of displacement and focus on their immediate needs.

Help the efforts: Charidy.com/fires

A Day in the Disaster Zone

Another thing that happened yesterday was canvassing the neighborhood. All day, the rabbis and volunteers went through the actual disaster zones—where fires were literally blazing—to assist in several critical ways:

Putting out fires
Distributing meals
Reporting on the status of people’s homes
Providing relief to firefighters, including any supplies they needed

Their courageous efforts ensured that both residents and first responders received vital support during this harrowing time.

A Community United

In the face of adversity, our Chabad community has demonstrated extraordinary resilience and unity. From opening homes to providing meals and emotional support, everyone has stepped up to ensure that no one feels alone during this difficult time. The Chabad House remains at the heart of these efforts, serving as a beacon of light and hope for all those affected by the wildfire.

Looking Ahead

As the fire continues to be monitored and emergency services work tirelessly to contain it, our community’s commitment to one another remains steadfast. Whether through offering shelter, sharing resources, or simply providing a space for connection, we will continue to support one another as we navigate this crisis together.

How You Can Help

The needs of our community are great, and your support can make an enormous difference. Every contribution helps us extend our reach and maintain the vital services that so many families are relying on during this crisis.

Please contribute today. Together, we can help our community rebuild and move forward with strength and unity. Charidy.com/fires