Trojan Family L.A. Wildfire Relief Fund persistently delivers essential support

Approximately six months ago, wildfires ravaged the greater Los Angeles region, inflicting an estimated $28 billion to $53.8 billion in property losses and displacing over 130,000 individuals. To assist USC students, faculty, and staff affected by this unprecedented devastation, USC President Carol Folt established the Trojan Family L.A. Wildfire Relief Fund. Thus far, the fund has garnered nearly $4.3 million.

“In the wake of unspeakable adversity, our Trojan Family united to extend a helping hand to those who required it the most,” Folt remarked. “Their kindness has guaranteed that our team in USC’s Office of Campus Support and Intervention can be there at every turn, providing continuous assistance for Trojans who will need guidance throughout the extensive transition still ahead.”

The fund has aided hundreds of Trojan families affected by the Eaton and Palisades wildfires, comprising 363 faculty, staff, and postdoctoral researchers; 75 students; and seven emeriti/USC Gold Card holders.

“The Trojan Wildfire Relief Fund was a remarkable demonstration of generosity from the Trojan Family,” said Scott Rabenold, USC senior vice president for university advancement. “Witnessing how our alumni and patrons from across the nation swiftly responded to the need to support these students, faculty, and staff members impacted by the wildfires was uplifting during a very challenging period.”

This support has enabled Trojans to rebuild their lives in ways as minor as replenishing a fridge or pantry and as significant as covering costs for temporary housing or smoke remediation. Through the fund, Trojans like Shamae Smith — whose family felt the ramifications of the Eaton fire in Altadena — have been able to acquire vehicles, recover children’s belongings, and even replace destroyed books and research materials.

Trojan Family L.A. Wildfire Relief Fund: ‘Means everything to my family and me’

“The compassion and aid shown during this profoundly challenging time means everything to my family and me,” said Smith, the manager for compliance and employment screening at USC Human Resources. “We are sincerely beyond thankful.”

Trojans like Heidi Thompson — whose family lost their residence in the Eaton fire — have utilized their allocated funds to secure temporary accommodation while their homes are rebuilt.

“One moment, you possess a home, photographs, your children’s artwork, and the keepsakes of your family heritage, and the next moment, you have absolutely nothing but the clothes on your back and what you managed to grab before the flames struck,” said Thompson, executive director for talent acquisition at USC Human Resources. “It is initially devastating, but then you realize that you are fortunate because you have your life, your family, and your Trojan community to support you. Items can be replaced, but people and community cannot.”