How to Send Cards and Letters of Encouragement to People Impacted by the LA Wildfires
My family used to live in Altadena and we’ve been continuing to look for ways to support those affected! We’re going to be putting together care packages to support people who lost homes, experienced the stress of evacuating, or are first responders.
We’d love to include an encouraging letter or drawing from you and/or your kids!
(Or your classroom, homeschool co-op, Sunday school group, moms group, etc!)
Here’s all the info for how to participate (it’s simple and free!)
Step One: Draw a picture or make a card or write a letter.
Here’s what to keep in mind:
Yes:
Please DO draw uplifting pictures like: hearts, flowers, animals, stars, rainbows, the ocean, cartoon characters, cute food, etc.
Please DO say encouraging things like “Thinking of you” or “Sending love and prayers” or “Our thoughts are with you” or “I’m sorry you’ve gone through this difficult time.”
Please DO express your hope, encouragement, or love.
Please DO sign your card with name and child’s age, if you’re comfortable. (First names are fine — it just adds a personal touch between you and the recipient.)
No:
Please do NOT draw pictures or include words about fires, homes burning down, firefighters fighting a fire, etc. We want this to be uplifting and encouraging, not traumatizing.
Please do NOT draw or say anything political.
Please do NOT mail money, gift cards, or anything else to me — just the cards!
Here’s a news story about a similar program sending cards after Hurricane Helene — there are some great images about messages to write or pictures to draw!
If you’re looking for printable stationery or coloring pages, here are some ideas:
My kids also love using the Art for Kids Hub tutorials on YouTube to help draw a picture — they have so many cute, cheerful options!
Step Two: Send in the Drawing.
Take a photo or scan your drawing and email *AS A PDF* to me: Kelly@SoCalNatureKids.com
OR
Mail it to my PO Box at:
SoCal Nature Kids
5225 Canyon Crest Dr
Suite 71 #154
Riverside, CA 92507
Please send by January 31, 2025.
That’s all you need to do on your end, but here’s what will happen next:
Step Three: Cards will be included in Care Packages and Distributed
My family will be putting together little care packages to give to those impacted by the fires. We plan to include small gift cards to Target or Amazon, along a few small comfort items like snacks or a small stuffed animal.
Nominate a Recipient:
Do you know someone (including yourself) who lost a home, evacuated, or is helping with the fire department/emergency services and would benefit from letters of encouragement and a small care package?
You can nominate someone you know (or yourself!) who was impacted using this simple Google Form. We used to live in Altadena so we’ll be distributing via some connections there as well.
Donate Items for Care Packages:
Do you have a small business and would like to donate items for the care packages? We’re looking for small, lightweight comfort items like yummy snacks, cozy socks, or small stuffed animals. Please email me Kelly@SoCalNatureKids.com if you’d like to participate!