SOUTH LOS ANGELES – T.R.U.S.T. South LA, a community land trust leader in advocating for affordable housing and equitable community solutions, is responding to the wildfire crisis with immediate relief and a call to action.
As of today, January 11, 2025, T.R.U.S.T. South LA has successfully distributed a total of 155 air purifiers to South LA residents. On Thursday, January 9, 2025, 61 air purifiers were distributed, and an additional 94 were distributed today during our event at the organization’s office.
“We are deeply saddened by the destruction these wildfires have left behind,” said Oscar Monge, Interim Executive Director of T.R.U.S.T. South LA. “But this climate crisis isn’t just about the wildfires—it’s also about the deep inequities in how frontline communities like South LA are suffocated by policies and a built environment that fail to prioritize their needs. We are stepping up to fill the gaps, but long-term systemic solutions are critical. This includes addressing health disparities, investing in racial equity, and creating climate-resilient neighborhoods.”
“With the fires and poor air quality, combined with the challenge of finding affordable air purifiers and limited access to reliable transportation, it was nearly impossible to get one,” said Deshanae Cantley, a South LA resident. “T.R.U.S.T. South LA stepped up and provided the help we desperately needed when no one else did.”
Community Land Trust tenants with children expressed appreciation for the guidance provided by T.R.U.S.T. South LA on how to use the air purifiers effectively. “It’s more than just giving out resources—they care about making sure we’re safe and healthy,” said one tenant.
The air purifiers were prioritized for families and workers most impacted by the hazardous air quality caused by the recent wildfires. Residents who received the air purifiers expressed deep gratitude and appreciation for the support, highlighting the critical need for resources in addressing the ongoing health and environmental challenges faced by frontline communities in South Los Angeles.
“This is an opportunity to reimagine a new way of rebuilding and an opportunity to remediate the harms done by systemic inequities” said Siris Barrios, Director of Social Impact & Community Organizing. “If South LA continues to be excluded from climate solutions, the entire city will suffer. Environmental justice starts with protecting the most at-risk communities.”
The wildfire crisis underscores the need for targeted investments and systemic change. T.R.U.S.T. South LA is calling on city leaders, including Mayor Karen Bass, to take the following steps:
- Expand emergency relief to vulnerable communities to obtain air purifiers, masks, and financial assistance.
- Freeze rents across Los Angeles to protect impacted communities and tenants currently struggling to make ends meet.
- Prioritize frontline neighborhoods in future climate and disaster planning.
- Commit to long-term investments in affordable housing, health equity programs, and climate resilient infrastructure.
Donations to T.R.U.S.T. South LA’s Rapid Response Fund will help provide additional air purifiers, masks, and direct relief, while also supporting advocacy for systemic change.
T.R.U.S.T. South LA is raising Rapid Response Funds to expand its wildfire relief efforts and advocate for systemic change. Every $50 donated provides an air purifier to a family in need. Donations can be made here.
Together, we can build a city that values equity and resilience for all its residents.
Source: Press Release
