LOS ANGELES, CAA Despite the extensive damage caused by this week’s horrific wildfire that ripped through Pacific Palisades, one structure remained largely intact: the Chabad Jewish Community Center.
In sharp contrast to the surrounding destruction, the Chabad center only suffered modest damage despite being surrounded by burned land and demolished properties.
A community member posted on social media, thanking Hashem for a full miracle and the building’s survival.
As firefighters try to confine the flames, the fire, which has damaged several houses and caused evacuations, continues to pose a threat to areas of Los Angeles.
Investigations into why the Chabad center was mostly unaffected by the wildfire are still ongoing, and officials have not yet identified the precise origin of the incident.
The Chabad center’s existence in the face of devastation is a remarkable testament to tenacity.
The neighborhood received the following statement from the Palisades Chabad:
During this trying time, we hope you and your loved ones are safe and doing well. We wanted to provide an update and express our sincere gratitude for the overwhelming amount of care and concern we have received as the Palisades Fire continues to impact our town. We are reminded of the extraordinary strength of our Chabad Palisades family by your generosity and support.
The winds are still howling, and the night is still extremely long. To put out this deadly fire, we need your prayers.
Many people of the community, some of whom have not yet left, are in contact with us, and we are making every effort to connect them with first responders so that they can be safe.
We are thankful for our protection and are clinging to optimism as we face the difficulties that lie ahead, baruch hashem. Sadly, there have been several vehicles in the parking lot and significant damage to our storage area, which has affected our property. Even though these losses are painful, we are grateful that no one has been hurt, and we will keep praying for everyone in the impacted areas to be safe.
The courage and selflessness of the firefighters and first responders who are putting themselves in such danger to protect our town inspire us greatly. Their bravery is simply astounding, and we are eternally grateful to them.
Remember that we are here to support you. Don’t be afraid to ask for help if you or someone you know needs a place to stay, help with anything, or just someone to listen. These moments serve as a reminder of how important it is to unite, and we want to assist one another in every way we can.
Let’s keep praying for our community’s safety as well as the fortitude to meet these difficulties head-on with fortitude and solidarity. We shall triumph together.