Nonprofit Offers Support to LA Families Affected by Disaster: A Community Effort
Nonprofit Offers Lifeline to Families in Need Amid Black Heritage Month
LOS ANGELES COUNTY, Calif. – As Black Heritage Month unfolds, the nonprofit organization "It’s Bigger Than Us" continues to expand its mission of providing disaster relief. Founded during the pandemic, the organization has become a crucial support system for families affected by recent fires, particularly in Altadena and Pacific Palisades.
Operating out of Baldwin Hills Crenshaw Plaza, the organization focuses on offering essential aid to those impacted by the devastating wildfires. "This is what it’s about. In order to bridge gaps, you need bridge builders," said Tyrone Nance, Founder and COO of It’s Bigger Than Us.
Families affected by the fires can schedule appointments at the location, where they are met by case managers who are attuned to the trauma these individuals face. “We do cater to a few, like, walk-ins, but it’s appointment-based. So when you come in, you have to make sure your verifications are up to date. You meet with a case manager, you get a paper about what you can shop and how often you can come, and then you check out and you also get a gift card for $50 on your way out. And that is through our brand-new partnership that we have with Westside Food Bank,” Nance explained.
Looking ahead, It’s Bigger Than Us has planned a community gathering for February 21st, aimed at connecting families affected by both the Eaton and Pacific Palisades fires. This event will include listening sessions as well as discussions on next steps for those impacted.
In addition to this gathering, the organization will hold its seventh annual back-to-school festival in August, with plans to distribute more than 1,500 backpacks at events in South LA and the Westside.
