Friendship Center launches Emergency Respite Program for families displaced by Los Angeles fires

MONTECITO, Calif. - Managers with the Friendship Center in Montecito know all too well what it’s like to deal with the effects of wildfires in Southern California.

"We were very concerned about the members down south … especially those who are being placed … we have a lot of families here who have loved ones down south," said family enrollment director Kim Larsen of the Friendship Center.

So the center is launching its Emergency Respite Plan for families displaced by the fires down south.

"We know for a fact that anyone who is being displaced from a tragedy such as a fire needs someplace where they can come where they will feel safe and secure," said Larsen.

"We offer care … activities … brain activities … good environment," said DEI and wellness coordinator Deysi Herrera of the Friendship Center.

The Friendship Centers team says those who need respite care services due to the LA fires can sign up right now.

"My hope is to try to help all the families with support with this crisis in this moment," said Herrera.

Relocated families can get up to two full weeks of program activities including supervision, meals, and other support for free.

“We will be able to help a lot of people with their loved ones who have different forms of dementia … to come here to get the socialization and activities they need … while their families are doing what they need to take care of the situation at home," said Larsen.

The program is open weekdays.

For more information on enrollment, visit: kim@friendshipcentersb.org.