
Emergency Response Resources
The Santa Monica Family YMCA is committed to supporting our community during times of need. On January 7th, our community was impacted by the Palisades Fires just north of our YMCA. This disaster caused significant disruption, forcing evacuations and destroyed homes in nearby communities. This page provides resources, opportunities to get involved, and ways to give back to help those affected by the emergencies.
UPDATES
Von’s + Pavilions Foundation Support for YMCA Relief Efforts
VON’S + PAVILIONS FOUNDATION SUPPORTS YMCA FIRE RELIEF EFFORTS Thank You, Von’s + Pavilions Companies Foundation! The Santa Monica Family YMCA extends our sincere gratitude to The...
Together, We Rise: Join Our Emergency Response Efforts

As the fire continues to impact our surrounding communities, we want to update you on how the Santa Monica Family YMCA is responding to the needs of our members, staff, and neighbors. We recognize the emotional and physical toll this situation is having on our staff, volunteers, and the broader community. Our thoughts and prayers are with everyone affected. Together, we remain committed to providing stability, connection, and support during times of need. We are better together.
Hodge Patterson, CEO
YMCA’s Emergency Response Resource Update
YMCA’s Emergency Response Resource Update In the wake of the recent fires, the Santa Monica Family YMCA has mobilized efforts to support our community during this challenging time. We’re...
SUPPORTING OUR NEIGHBORS
The Santa Monica Family YMCA stands with our first responders and our community impacted during this challenging time. As our neighbors work towards recovery, we know that the gaps in resources, support, and funding have only grown wider with passing time – but recovery is not instantaneous. That’s why our YMCA is working to remove barriers for people impacted by the fires by extending new scholarship opportunities.
Working to meet the needs of our community members impacted by the fires, our YMCA is opening new opportunities for membership and program financial assistance to help offset expenses and ensure everyone has the opportunity to build stronger wellbeing in spirit, mind, and body – with community. Financial assistance is available for neighbors impacted directly and indirectly.
Please complete the form below to apply for these scholarship funds. Our team will reach out to you to see how The Y can support you!
We invite our community to let us know how we can support or encourage you to join our recovery efforts on the coastal communities of LA. Members interested in volunteering their time or talents should complete the Needs & Volunteer Interest Form. Volunteers will be required to complete this Volunteer Packet before selecting your dates for service.
Since the fires started, we worked tirelessly to reopen our facility, offer FREE emergency day camps and coordinate meals with local restaurants for our police department and national guard. We are continuing to evolve our services based on our communities needs.
Please continue to monitor your email for updates, and stay up to date on current evacuation notices for your safety through the CalFire Palisades Fire webpage and/or Santa Monica City Alerts Page.
For our neighbors impacted by the Palisades Fire, we invite you to complete the Palisades Wellness Check Needs Form below. This form will allow our team to connect with you so we can work to get your needs met in such a challenging time, through direct services and resource & referral.
DONATION NEEDS
Our community has been so generous! Currently, our Community Room is overflowing with items for people to grab and go or relax and socialize. We’ll regularly update this section with items our community needs during emergencies. Please check back often for updates.
Current Donation Asks:
Gift Cards & Monetary Donations to the Y
We will distribute these funds to relieve the financial burdens for people impacted by the fires. Monetary donations will help cover the cost of memberships, preschool, and childcare programs for affected families. Donate to the YMCA’s Emergency Response Resources by clicking the button above, or drop off Gift Cards to our Membership Desk.
Donate today to help families recover and rebuild from emergencies. Every dollar makes a difference!
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES
If you’re interested in volunteering to help those impacted by the Palisades Fire, please fill out the Relief efforts Volunteer Packet below. Thank you for helping us make an impact and support those who have lost so much. Upon completion of your packet, you will receive the link to schedule your volunteer shift. Completing this packet should take less than 5 minutes.
COMMUNITY RESOURCES
Here are links to local resources that can provide additional support:
- Santa Monica Resources — www.santamonica.gov
- Santa Monica City Alerts Page — https://www.santamonica.gov/process-explainers/how-to-sign-up-for-sm-alerts
- Los Angeles County Resources — https://211la.org/ & https://dhs.lacounty.gov/our-services/resources/
- LA Fire Mutual Aid Resources: — https://www.fireaid.info/
- CalFire Palisades Fire Webpage — https://www.fire.ca.gov/
GET INVOLVED
Help us make a difference in our community by volunteering, donating, or sharing these resources with others who might need them. Together, we can rise and thrive through any challenge.
For any questions or updates, please contact Caity King, Mission Advancement Director, at caity@ymcasm.org.