Hymn Lyrics-January 19, 2025

Sunday, January 19, 2025

Second Sunday in Ordinary Time

Los Angeles Wildfire Relief

All of us either know someone or know of someone who has lost house/apartment and/or business in the Palisades or Altadena/Pasadena/Sierra Madre.  The response of Angelenos to help their fellow Angelenos has been extraordinary.  Any rebuilding is far off.  Even if one’s house or apartment is left standing in the fire area there are no utilities – those people would be camping without electricity or water or gas in their residence.  Assistance for people who lost housing will be needed for some time.

     Any donations for Wildfire Relief can be dropped off either at the Parish Center during the work week or at the church before or after Mass Saturday afternoon or Sunday morning.

The attached list from the St. Vincent de Paul Society gives suggestions as to items needed now.

     Fraud Alert from the LAPD: The Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) has issued several warnings about scams targeting fire victims. Here are some key resources and tips that the LAPD is providing the to help avoid falling victim to these scams. Please share this information with your communities:

1. 1. False Job Solicitation Scams: Be cautious of job offers related to fire recovery circulating on social media. These offers may claim to be from the government or reputable agencies but are often fraudulent1. Do not provide personal information like your Social Security number or bank account details.
   2. Fake Government Employees: Do not trust anyone claiming to be a city, county, or federal employee without proper identification. Government workers will not ask for payment on the spot or pressure you into making immediate decisions1. Verify their credentials by contacting the relevant agency directly.
   3. Phone and Text Message Scams: Beware of unsolicited phone calls or text messages asking for donations or offering assistance. Legitimate organizations will not cold-call you for donations. Always verify the authenticity of such requests by calling back using verified contact details.
   4. Unsolicited In-Person Solicitations: Be cautious of people approaching you in person offering free help with repairs, insurance claims, or government assistance. Ask to see their identification and verify their credentials.
   5. Charity Scams: Scammers may pose as charities or nonprofits aiding fire victims. Verify the legitimacy of any organization by researching them on websites like Charity Navigator or the Better Business Bureau. Avoid cash donations and opt for secure, traceable payment methods.

The LAPD urges everyone to “be cautious when donating to fire relief efforts. Always verify the legitimacy of the charity or organization, especially if they reached out to you directly. Use trusted platforms like Charity Navigator to check the legitimacy of organizations before making a donation.” To ensure that any charities or organizations are legitimate, the LAPD says you can reach out to the department by calling 877-275-5273.

          Second Collection this weekend for Solidarity Fund for Church in Africa and for the Church in Latin America.

https://youtube.com/live/xGzRy5RBgf4?feature=share

You are welcome to watch our 10:00 am Sunday morning Mass on YouTube either live or later Sunday afternoon or evening.

Disaster Relief Fraud Awareness Guide[20]