Free Child Care Provides Safe Space for Kids Affected by L.A. Fires
A Sense of Normalcy for Children in Crisis
Squeals of joy can be heard from the playground at Eagle Rock Recreation Center. A group of 30 children is huddled into groups according to their favorite breakfast item.
"I like pancakes better than waffles," one child announced.
"Pancakes, pancakes!" they chanted together as they beckoned for others to join them.
There was a sense of normalcy among the kids gathered at the recreation center, despite the upheaval in their families’ lives. A few miles away, thousands of Altadena homes, schools, and businesses are in ruins, leveled by the Eaton fire.
Disaster Response and Relief Efforts
The Eaton and Palisades fires destroyed at least 11 public and private schools and some 30 child-care facilities — and thousands of families have been displaced by the torrent of damage — more than 12,000 structures destroyed, including many homes. Across Los Angeles County, many families whose lives have been upended by the fires are looking to maintain structure and routine for their children and are turning to disaster pop-up camps, including Project:Camp. In partnership with L.A. City Recreation and Parks, the camp is providing free child care during the fire crisis. The organization has responded to disasters across the country, including Hurricane Helene in North Carolina in 2024 and the Maui wildfires of 2023.
Free Child Care Options
The organization has set up three camps across Los Angeles County, with plans to open more as needed. This week, each L.A. camp has filled its slots hours after opening for registration. Organizations like the Boys and Girls Club, the YMCA, and Los Angeles County Parks and Recreation are also offering free options for child care. And still other preschools, local businesses, and families have taken it into their own hands to create temporary child care in this time of need.
The Importance of Structure and Routine
"Younger children in particular, they rely on constancy in their lives to feel like everything’s OK," said clinical psychologist Karen Rogers, of the National Center for School Crisis and Bereavement at Children’s Hospital L.A. "And if their school is not here anymore, if they’re having to live in a different place, then that sense of predictability can be gone for them."
Free Child Care Options in Los Angeles County
Here’s where you can find free child care:
- Project:Camp (Eagle Rock Recreation Center, 4900 Public St., Los Angeles, CA 90041)
- Big and Tiny 10th Street Preschool (Santa Monica, CA 90401)
- Local gymnastics center (Santa Monica, CA 90401)
- Taekwondo school (Santa Monica, CA 90401)
- Barrington Recreation Center (11500 Palisades Dr., Los Angeles, CA 90049)
Conclusion
For families affected by the L.A. fires, finding a sense of normalcy and routine is crucial. By providing free child care options, organizations like Project:Camp and others are helping to bring a sense of stability and comfort to children and their families. As the recovery efforts continue, it is essential to prioritize the well-being and support of these affected families.
FAQs
Q: How can I find more information about free child care options in my area?
A: You can visit the websites of organizations like Project:Camp, the Boys and Girls Club, the YMCA, and Los Angeles County Parks and Recreation, or search online for "free child care options in Los Angeles County."
Q: How can I support families affected by the L.A. fires?
A: You can donate to organizations providing support services, such as food, shelter, and child care, or volunteer your time to help with disaster relief efforts.
Q: What are some ways to help children cope with the trauma of the L.A. fires?
A: Establishing structure and routine, providing emotional support, and encouraging communication can help children feel more secure and stable.
