In January 2025, the LA Fires destroyed residential, private, and public buildings and essential infrastructures, from Altadena to the Palisades. Properties that were entirely consumed included schools and places of worship. As of Sunday, January 26, the following data describes the destruction as well as the current containment of the fires:

• Pacific Palisades: 23,448 acres burned, 90% contained
• Eaton (Altadena):14,021 acres burned, 99% contained
• Hughes (Castaic):10,425 acres burned, 95% contained

“Fueled by powerful winds, the fast-moving Eaton Fire became the fifth deadliest in California history, resulting in at least 17 deaths. An estimated 9,400 structures — homes, schools, houses of worship and businesses — were destroyed.” (NPR, January 25, 2025) The count of how many individuals and families who remain unhoused is still unsure. 

Masjid Al Taqwa, a house of worship in Altadena for over 50 years, burned down along with neighboring businesses on January 8. Established in the early 1970s, it was the first mosque in the Altadena/Pasadena area founded by African Americans. The mosque was a place of worship for the local community. They held classes on Islamic teachings, hosted weekly social programming, and did community outreach every year during the month of Ramadan. 

Jihad Shakoor, a long-time Altadena resident, business owner, and founder of an outreach organization called Reconstructing Everyday Basic Outcomes Under New Direction (R.E.B.O.U.N.D.), felt the community’s piety could not be contained to a building and that action was needed. He partnered with Inkerij Foundation for a “Day of Service” on Saturday January 25. 

“The needs of the people in our community are much larger than as an individual. May The Most High give us strength.” – Jihad Shakoor

Inkerij Foundation helps purpose-driven individuals and organizations build their capacity through programming. We contacted several organizations to join as community sponsors to establish a drop-in center at First A.M.E. Church, Pasadena in order to serve those deeply impacted by the fires. 

Impact Report

• A new drop-in center was established for fire victims.
• Grassroots interfaith relations were developed for future collaborations.
• Over $20,000 of in-kind essential items were donated, including immediate necessities like hygiene products, air purifiers, and new undergarments.
• The drop-in center has a substantial supply of quality goods to distribute every Friday after Jumu’ah and on Sundays following church services.
• We hosted a FEMA Application workshop to assist those who qualify for federal funding.

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