Dear WPDI Community,
As we watch the devastating wildfires engulf Los Angeles County, our hearts go out to all those affected. Los Angeles is our home, where Forest Whitaker founded WPDI in 2012 and began his vision of peace through WPDI. The city’s resilience and spirit have always been a beacon of hope, and now, more than ever, it needs our thoughts and solidarity.
WPDI’s Domestic Harmonizer Program (DHP), an initiative based in Los Angeles County, is dedicated to fostering peace and understanding. In response to the upcoming efforts following the devastating fires, we will partner with the schools where we operate to provide support to those directly impacted, working together to support local aid organizations who assist vulnerable communities affected by the disaster. Our efforts will include organizing bake sales to raise funds for affected families and schools, assembling ‘Backpacks of Hope’ with essential items for students, creating care kits with canned goods, blankets, and hygiene supplies for families, and organizing book and toy drives to help children cope with the aftermath of the fires.
Resources for Evacuations and Shelters:
For those seeking information on evacuations, shelters, or other emergency resources, please visit the official Los Angeles County emergency site at lacounty.gov/emergency.
How You Can Help:
We encourage you to support the ongoing relief efforts for the wildfire victims. The New York Times has compiled a comprehensive guide on assisting those in need. Please visit this article for more information: How to Help Victims of the California Wildfires.
Together, We Can Make a Difference.
The ongoing wildfires are a powerful reminder of the urgent need to address climate change. This issue affects us all, and only through unity and proactive efforts can we mitigate its impact. We are incredibly grateful to the first responders and everyone supporting the affected communities.
We stand in solidarity with Los Angeles, united in hope for resilience and recovery.
With gratitude and hope,
WPDI Team