Pechanga Tribe donates $500K to support Los Angeles fire victims

TEMECULA, Calif. (FOX 5/KUSI) — The Pechanga Tribe of Southern California has pledged a contribution of $500,000 to assist victims of the recent Palisades and Eaton Fires that have devastated parts of Los Angeles, the tribe announced Saturday.

The donation, made in partnership with the Los Angeles Rams Foundation, will support three key organizations providing critical aid during this challenging time: the American Red Cross Los Angeles Region, the Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) Foundation and World Central Kitchen.

Additionally, Pechanga is donating another $250,000 directly to the American Red Cross to further bolster relief efforts for those affected by the fires.

“From ancient times to now, Southern California has always been and will always be our home,” said Mark Macarro, Pechanga Tribal chairman. “The loss and devastation that continues to take its toll on our region from these catastrophic fires is heartbreaking. Our reservation has been impacted by fires in the past and we know the importance of coming together to lift up people in need.”

In addition to the monetary contributions, the Pechanga Tribe has been actively engaged on the ground. Since Jan. 7, the Pechanga Fire Department has deployed personnel, equipment and resources to assist in fighting the fires. Meanwhile, the Pechanga Resort Casino has been offering discounted accommodations to residents without power due to the ongoing fires and Santa Ana winds.

This donation is part of Pechanga’s longstanding tradition of supporting their community during emergencies. In the past, the tribe received support when a fast-moving fire ravaged land near their reservation, and now they are returning that support to their neighbors.

More than 200 American Red Cross workers are currently assisting thousands of Southern Californians displaced by the fires, providing essential services such as shelter, food and help in locating missing persons. In collaboration with the Rams Foundation, the Pechanga Tribe’s donation will help to ensure these vital efforts continue, bringing much-needed relief to those impacted by the flames.