Aliento Launches Fundraiser to Support Domestic Workers Affected by California Firestorms
LOS ANGELES, January 2025 - Aliento, The Center for Latinx Communities at Pepperdine University, in collaboration with their student organization, the Aliento
Community Organization (ACO), has launched a critical fundraiser to support domestic
workers affected by the recent California firestorms. These devastating fires have
caused widespread destruction, leaving many domestic workers—housekeepers, nannies,
gardeners, cooks, and caretakers—facing significant financial hardship.
“Domestic workers are the backbone of our communities, yet they are among the most vulnerable when disasters strike,” said Dr. Miguel Gallardo, professor and director of Aliento. “At Aliento, we are committed to ensuring that those who sustain our community life receive the support they need during these challenging times.”
The initiative, spearheaded by Aliento, focuses on providing direct financial assistance to domestic workers and their families. Contributions can be made via Venmo at @lesGar28, with 100% of the funds going directly to affected families. To date, Aliento and ACO have conducted outreach to the Pepperdine and greater Southern California communities through flyers, social media, and word of mouth to ensure the workers most impacted by the fires receive aid.
How Domestic Workers Are Identified: ACO uses an intake process to identify those in need, asking domestic workers to detail how the firestorms have impacted their work. This process ensures that resources are allocated to individuals facing the most urgent challenges.
A Community Effort: The idea for this initiative originated with Aliento leadership, who recognized the disproportionate impact of the fires on the Latinx community, particularly domestic workers. In response, ACO quickly mobilized to rally community support and create a meaningful avenue for relief.
About Aliento Community Organization: ACO is a student-led organization that supports Latinx and first-generation graduate students at Pepperdine University by fostering academic, personal, and professional development. Through its initiatives, ACO cultivates a strong, supportive network and advocates for equity and inclusion.
A Call to Action: Lesley Garcia, a current Aliento student, and key fundraiser organizer, emphasized the importance of community solidarity: “Every donation, no matter the size, represents hope and support for families who have lost so much. Together, we can make a difference.”
For additional information or questions, contact Ashley Blae at Ashley.Blae@pepperdine.edu.