Fire Engulfs Pacific Palisades: Six Sifrei Torah and Chabad House Building Saved
Six Sifrei Torahs were saved from the Chabad House in Pacific Palisades, damaged in the ongoing Palisades Fire that engulfed the Los Angeles area. The devastating wildfire spread quickly through the Pacific Palisades neighborhood, and 30,000 residents have reportedly evacuated • Full Story, Video
By Chabadinfo Reporter
Six Sifrei Torahs were saved from the Chabad House in Pacific Palisades, damaged in the ongoing Palisades Fire that engulfed the Los Angeles area. The devastating wildfire spread quickly through the Pacific Palisades neighborhood, and 30,000 residents have reportedly evacuated.
Firefighters worked quickly, and the community was able to evacuate the site with the Sifrei Torah hours before the flames arrived. The Shluchim, Rabbi Zushe Cunin and Rabbi Shalom Diskin, also helped evacuate the elderly from the area in a joint effort.
Despite the damage — some menorahs and vehicles in the parking lot were damaged — the Chabad House itself was saved thanks to the firefighting efforts. “Baruch Hashem, we are safe,” said Rabbi Shalom Diskin. “With Hashem’s help, the community will return and build back stronger.”
The Shluchim posted on Facebook with an update:
“Grateful for Safety, Standing Together
“We hope you and your loved ones are safe and well during this difficult time. As the Palisades Fire continues to affect our community, we wanted to share an update and extend our heartfelt gratitude for the outpouring of care and concern we’ve received. Your kindness and support remind us of the incredible strength of our Chabad Palisades family.
“The night is still a very long one, and the winds are still raging. We need all of your prayers to overcome this dangerous fire.
“We are in touch with many community members, some of who have not yet evacuated, and we are doing our best to help them connect with first responders to ensure their safety.
“Baruch Hashem, we are grateful for our safety and are holding onto hope as we navigate the challenges ahead. Unfortunately, our property has been impacted—our storage area has suffered severe damage, as well as multiple cars in the parking lot. While these losses are difficult, we are most thankful that everyone is safe, and we continue to pray for the protection of all in the affected areas.
“We are deeply inspired by the bravery and selflessness of the firefighters and first responders who are risking so much to safeguard our community. Their heroic efforts are truly awe-inspiring, and we owe them our endless gratitude.
“Please remember: we are here for you. If you or someone you know needs help finding a place to stay, assistance with anything, or simply a listening ear, don’t hesitate to reach out. Times like these remind us how essential it is to come together, and we want to do everything we can to support one another.
“Let us continue to pray for the safety of our community and for the strength to face these challenges with resilience and unity. Together, we will overcome.”
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