We in the San Fernando Valley have a new task this month, helping the San Fernando Valley Rescue Mission get back on its feet. On May 3, a fire destroyed the Rescue Missions emergency shelter, vehicle fleet, clothing warehouse and food pantry.
It started in the early morning at a warehouse next to the Saticoy Street shelter in North Hollywood and spread quickly. The good work of more than 130 brave Los Angeles city firefighters brought the fire under control. Fortunately, all shelter guests got away safely. But the impact on the Rescue Missions equipment and operations was devastating.The Rescue Mission provides shelter, food, clothing and basic services to thousands of vulnerable people in the Valley. For decades, its work has been critical to the fabric of our community. This is a tragic setback for the Missions ongoing work in my district.
The blaze took the Rescue Missions entire fleet of six trucks and two vans. These were the heart of the Rescue Missions emergency mobile S.O.S. program, which provided more than 1,500 people with 1,500 meals, 1,400 items of clothing, 300 showers and 400 hygiene kits each month. The larger trucks also picked up food and clothing donations for the Rescue Missions three thrift stores and food bank, which served more than 46,000 meals in the last year.
My office will be spearheading an effort to help restore the vital resources decimated in the fire and I ask that you join me. The easiest way to make a difference right now is to donate online on the Missions website, at www.sanfernandovalleyrescuemission.org. To donate in person, drop off critical items, such as blankets, clothing, personal hygiene items, and small household items at the Sun Valley Thrift Store, located on 9007 Lankershim Blvd. in Sun Valley. Im doing everything in my power to help the Rescue Mission get back on its feet. This includes working with my colleagues on the City Council, local businesses, community organizations and corporate partners to gather donations that will restore the Rescue Missions operations. That s my top priority right now. For more information on how to donate to the San Fernando Valley Rescue mission, please contact: (818) 771-9839 or toll free at (888) 937-4448.