Los Angeles, Ca (September 10, 2025) |
In a powerful continuation of wildfire relief efforts, the USC Credit Union Community Foundation, in partnership with the Los Angeles County Department of Economic Opportunity (DEO) and the Los Angeles County America's Job Center of California (AJCC), deployed $80,000 from the Southern California Wildfire Relief Fund to support residents impacted by the Eaton and Pacific Palisades fires. This latest round of assistance provided $1,000 in direct cash aid to 80 Los Angeles County families and individuals, underscoring the united commitment of credit unions and local government partners to deliver meaningful relief in times of crisis.
The Southern California Wildfire Relief Fund, managed by the USC Credit Union Community Foundation, a certified 501(c)(3) organization, was launched on January 10, 2025, shortly after the fires began to provide immediate, no-obligation cash assistance to affected residents. In late May 2025, the Foundation expanded this effort through a formal partnership with Los Angeles County DEO and AJCC. Through this collaboration, wildfire survivors who had lost homes, jobs, or stability were identified and referred to the fund, ensuring that aid reached those most in need.
Dr. Rocio Flores, CEO of the USC Credit Union Community Foundation and Chief Social Impact Officer of USC Credit Union, noted the importance of collaboration in addressing community needs. "Public partnerships allow us to extend our reach and serve more of our neighbors. This initiative shows what's possible when resources are aligned toward a shared purpose," she said. Stephanie Holloway, Head of Intergovernmental Relations and Development at the LA County DEO, added that the effort reflects a broader commitment to Los Angeles County. "As part of our agency's mission, we continually seek ways to connect resources with the people who need them most. The Southern California Wildfire Relief Fund allowed us to do exactly that - meeting immediate needs while reinforcing long-term support for residents," she explained.
The funds have been instrumental in covering essential needs such as housing, medical expenses, and daily necessities, illustrating the Foundation's role as a crucial support system during catastrophic events. Vache, one of the recipients, described the ongoing strain on his family: "Insurance will only cover about 60% of our rebuild costs. We are anticipating financial hardship for the next few years, so any amount of assistance will help." Gianna, another beneficiary, reflected on her experience: "As a single parent, this has been incredibly difficult. I am eternally grateful for the financial assistance shared with me and my family."
The partnership concluded on July 30, 2025, with the distribution of the final relief checks. In total, 80 families and individuals received $1,000 in direct assistance to help cover urgent needs and stabilize their recovery.
As of July 30, 2025, the Southern California Wildfire Relief Fund has raised $330,676 through the generosity of USC Credit Union members, partner credit unions, and community supporters. Notably, half of the total funds were contributed by fellow credit unions, reflecting the sector's enduring commitment to the cooperative principle of "people helping people" in times of crisis. To date, the fund has awarded $302,000 in direct emergency cash assistance to 302 families and individuals.