Wildfires continue to rage in southern California. So far, the fires have killed 20 people, destroyed 2,700 homes, displaced over 10,000 people, and charred 700,000 acres of land in five counties. Businesses, government offices, churches, and schools remain closed.

The Church is working together. The Dioceses of Los Angeles and San Diego are offering assistance to parishioners and their families. While the dioceses report the extraordinary needs and challenges caused by the fires, they recognize the generosity and outpouring of support from churches around the country.

Episcopal Relief and Development, a compassionate response of the Church, quickly responded and provided critical aid to affected communities. "In times like these, Episcopalians immediately take action and reach out to those in need," said Sandra Swan, President of ERD.

According to the Diocese of Los Angeles, several churches and diocesan institutions are offering shelter, food, and other assistance to victims. Accounts from parishes demonstrate how people are pulling together and lending themselves and their resources to others.

St. Hilary's Church in Hesperia is serving as a refuge for some of its members who were forced from their homes. Vicar Elizabeth Stingley reports that the parish hall is housing 20 people, four dogs, and a guinea pig. Clothing supplies and toiletries are being offered to fire victims by St. Stephen's Church in Santa Clarita. A St. Stephen's parishioner is supplying food to local shelters through his food service company.

In the Diocese of San Diego, Episcopal Community Services (ECS) of San Diego is providing outreach to the local community. ECS is working with parishes to distribute food, water, blankets, and clothing to people affected by the fires, including the homeless. Many of the shelters are full, forcing the homeless to sleep on city streets despite thick air and falling ash.

"We have arranged for Episcopal churches in the affected areas to function as distribution sites," said the Rev. Amanda May, Executive Director of ECS.

Emergency funding from Episcopal Relief and Development will help provide critical supplies to the San Diego area. ECS is also providing counselors, chaplains, and referral information for other necessary services such as temporary housing.

There are several ways people can reach out to victims of the wildfires. Episcopal Relief and Development's California Wildfires Fund is collecting donations on behalf of victims. These gifts will provide critical supplies to people in the midst of this crisis. Donate on this website or call (800) 334-7626, ext. 5129. For more information, contact the Diocese of Los Angeles at http://www.ladiocese.org/ and the Diocese of San Diego at www.edsd.org/news.html.

As communities come together during this time of tragedy and uncertainty, remember to pray for all families whose lives have been impacted by the wildfires. Visit this website for updates.