Our Safety During the Palisades Fire: A Story of Community and Heroes
The Palisades Fire was one of the most terrifying and challenging experiences we have ever faced. As the flames crept closer, we were placed under an evacuation order—but there was nowhere to go that could safely house all of us. Splitting up was not an option. The children in our care had already endured so much—loss, trauma, and separation. We could not allow them to face another moment of uncertainty, another disruption to the bonds they had fought so hard to rebuild.
With no clear path forward, we made the difficult decision to shelter in place until there was absolutely no other choice. We could not leave without ensuring the safety of everyone—our Loving Hands Family and the animals who depend on us.
And then, something incredible happened.
Our community stepped in!
Neighbors and volunteers showed up each morning and evening to help hose down the property, keeping it as safe as possible while closely tracking the fire’s unpredictable movements. Even as we waited on a placement list for emergency housing, our community refused to let us face this disaster alone.
Through the kindness of generous donors, we were able to secure shelter for our beloved animals. The Always Love Sanctuary and The LA Equestrian Center in Burbank opened their doors to them, offering them the love, comfort, and safety they deserved. Words cannot fully capture how much this meant to us. OUR COMMUNITY MADE THAT HAPPEN! These animals are not just pets—they are family.
For five days, our power was shut off to prevent electrical fires, leaving us in darkness and uncertainty. The children were frightened, and fear threatened to take hold—but we refused to let it win. Instead, we turned hardship into adventure, building mini forts in the living spaces and creating an indoor campout. With solar lanterns, storytime, and group games, we wrapped them in joy and security, shielding them as best we could from the fear we ourselves were battling.
But then, as food began to spoil, another wave of despair set in. With military guards enforcing the shelter-in-place order, we were unable to leave for fresh food, formula, diapers, wipes, or even water. The weight of helplessness pressed against our chests—until our community lifted it off of us.
With unwavering love, compassion and generosity, you stepped in. You made sure the babies and children in our care were fed having healthy meals and snacks, had warm blankets during those cold nights, toys, batteries for flashlights and that we had what we needed to survive. We extend a gratitude so deep that words will never truly be enough.
You are not just supporters—you are family. 🩷
Your kindness was the light that guided us through our darkest moments. When uncertainty loomed over us, you gave us safety. When fear took hold, you gave us peace. When despair threatened to break us, you reminded us that we were never alone.
Because of you, we made it through. Because of you, we no longer had to worry about the little ones who depend on us. Because of you, devastation turned into relief, fear into hope, and hardship into an unforgettable reminder of the goodness in this world.
You are more than donors. YOU ARER HEROES! 🦸🏾♀️🦸♂️🦸🏻
Your love was present in every meal, every moment of comfort, every deep breath we were finally able to take. And we will never, ever forget it.
From the depths of our hearts and souls, thank you. We will carry your kindness with us, always.
With endless love and gratitude, 🪴
The Loving Hands Family