Rooted in its legacy of social impact and advocacy, Pacific Oaks College & Children’s School has served as a pillar of the Pasadena community. By prioritizing service beyond the classroom, Pacific Oaks ensures its values translate to meaningful action.
So, when devastating wildfires swept through Southern California, displacing families and disrupting communities, the Pacific Oaks community got to work doing what they do best: supporting each other. Working closely with local organizations, the college quickly mobilized resources and aligned its efforts with the community’s most pressing needs to transform its campus into a hub of support offering essential supplies, gathering space, and connection to recovery resources.
“At Pacific Oaks, we believe in the power of community and the importance of lifting each other up in times of crisis,” said Breeda McGrath, Ph.D., president of Pacific Oaks College & Children’s School. “We are honored to stand alongside our partners and neighbors as we work toward recovery, so that no one has to face these challenges alone.”
Providing Essential Supplies to Childcare Providers
Pacific Oaks’ foundation in early childhood education uniquely equipped it to address one of the most urgent challenges brought on by the wildfires: the disruption of childcare services. Understanding that safe, accessible childcare is a cornerstone of community recovery, the college quickly established the Early Childhood Education Supplies Distribution Center, an initiative that provides educators, childcare providers, and families with what they need to continue caring for children despite the disaster.
In collaboration with The County of Los Angeles Office for the Advancement of Early Care and Education, Child Care Alliance of Los Angeles, and Options for Learning, Pacific Oaks facilitated the distribution of thousands of essential supplies. Air purifiers, masks, diapers, sanitation products, and other crucial resources were delivered to help mitigate the impact of poor air quality and other wildfire-related challenges. To date, more than 1,200 individuals and families have benefitted from these efforts.
What began as an immediate response on January 30 has now evolved into an ongoing initiative due to overwhelming demand and positive feedback. With continued support from organizations like the Department of Public Health and Baby2Baby, Pacific Oaks is ensuring that families and childcare providers receive constant assistance in the wake of this crisis.
Connecting Families to Legal and Financial Resources
Beyond immediate material needs, the college has transformed its campus into a resource hub where families and childcare providers can connect directly with experts from Options for Learning, the California Department of Social Services, and the Child Care Alliance of Los Angeles, ensuring direct access to guidance and support.
Pacific Oaks has also opened its doors to organizations offering legal and financial recovery services to those affected by wildfires. In partnership with the Disaster Legal Assistance Collaborative (DLAC), the college has donated space for ongoing free legal aid workshops. These sessions cover vital topics such as insurance claims, tenant rights, and rebuilding challenges, equipping attendees with the knowledge and resources they need to advocate for themselves.
Recognizing the diverse backgrounds of those affected, the college has also hosted bilingual workshops led by the Department of Economic Opportunity (DEO) of Los Angeles County, making information on grants, loans, and other financial relief programs accessible to all. Additionally, Pacific Oaks has offered campus space for FEMA Advice and Appeals Clinics, offering one-on-one guidance to those struggling with disaster relief applications and appeals.
A Community United in Recovery
As Southern California rebuilds, Pacific Oaks College remains steadfast in its mission to uplift and empower those in need. Whether through advocacy, resources, or direct support, the college will continue to stand alongside families, educators, and local leaders.
