Latest LA fires: Residents warned to stay indoors over smoke fears as evacuation zone expands

Frances Read
Corresponding

Social agencies in Los Angeles say the past few days have deeply affected people who were already homeless before the fires.

People Concern, which works with homeless people, says individuals are particularly vulnerable during disasters.

John Maceri, the agency’s CEO, says people were “already facing immense challenges, but the wildfires made their situation even more difficult.” In the Palisades alone, there are approximately 300 unhoused people, many of whom have now been displaced alongside thousands of others. residents accommodated. »

Many have been displaced, lost their few possessions, faced health risks from toxic air and have limited access to emergency shelter. At the same time, receiving updates on the evacuation is also a challenge.

The People Concern says it has actively responded through outreach teams in areas including Pacific Palisades, Malibu and Santa Monica, to distribute critical supplies and provide critical resources.

Los Angeles has faced homelessness issues for years: In 2023, more than 46,000 city residents and 75,000 people in Los Angeles County were considered homeless, according to the Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority.