After weeks of devastating fires and relentless measures from firefighters to protect neighborhoods, the community responded in kind. Local stations were inundated with donations, food drop-offs and handmade cards from kids giving thanks for their unrelenting efforts. At Encino Station #83, perhaps the biggest thanks for their tireless firefighting was the gift of rest.
Upon hearing that the mattresses at Station #83 were approximately 20 years old, a team of community members coordinated to refresh the station’s sleeping quarters. After all, with unpredictable hours and rotating station assignments, the least of one’s problems should be an uncomfortable bed.
Lucie Volotzky, owner of Blissful Sleep/Beds Unlimited, provided at cost 11 mattresses and a bundle of new pillows in a community effort supported by donors Waltona Manion of Manion and Associates, Diana Duenas of the Gelb Group, Rickey Gelb, Patricia Bates, Encino-based Honest Dermatology owners Melissa and Michael Brown, Sue DuBrin, Cowe Communications CEO Miri Rossitto, Fernando Foundation board member Mark Levinson and Encino Enterprise publisher Kathleen Sterling. Additionally, over two dozen new sheet sets donated by Sterling and a group of her friends were dropped off with the new mattresses.
While approximately 97% of the LAFD budget covers salaries and benefits, only 3% is left for stations to utilize for essential equipment, repairs, station maintenance, etc. Much like teachers, firefighters often pay directly out of their own pockets when items need to be replaced, updated or repaired as an extremely tight budget doesn’t leave a lot of funds left over. The donations thus far have been greatly appreciated, but what Station #83 (as well as most local stations) need right now are monetary donations. Donating to the LAFD Foundation provides essential equipment, training supplies and station support to supplement scarce city resources. While food has been the main donation thus far, a monetary fund can continue to aid the station in months to come, especially if future emergencies arise.
The best way to support Station #83 is to visit supportlafd.kindful.com or scan the QR code on the cover. While the campaign is set to the general LAFD Wildfire Emergency Fund, you can scroll down to donate to a specific station. Whether it be a one-time or recurring donation, the funds will be properly channeled to spend in a manner that will best support your local station.
Additionally, Station #83 is selling one-of-a-kind t-shirts to raise funds for one of their own, Darren Lloyd. Despite having to evacuate his own home with his pregnant wife, Lloyd returned to action and fought tirelessly to save neighbors and homes, even volunteering at shelters long after his shift was over. His selflessness and courageous actions are only a small part of why Captain Jun is recommending Lloyd for the Presidential Medal of Valor. Anyone interested in purchasing the $20 t-shirt can acquire one at Station #83 (4960 Balboa Blvd.) during normal business hours.
For those who put their life on the line daily, and saved Encino from potential destruction, a donation is a small but meaningful way to give back. Supporting your local fire station means supporting your community and at times like these, connection is appreciated more than ever.
