CALIFORNIA — For families who lost their homes in the devastating California fires, life has been anything but normal. Yet, amid the uncertainty, the generosity of Operation Blessing’s supporters sought to bring comfort and a sense of community back into their lives, providing joy through a dance party for wildfire victims.

This past weekend at Bel Air Church in Southern California, Operation Blessing hosted two unforgettable nights of family fun—a mother-son dance followed by a daddy-daughter dance. The goal was simple: to remind these children and their parents that they are not alone and that joy can still be found even in the toughest times.

The Need: Restoring a Sense of Normalcy

Almost 200 families between Bel Air Church and the local school have lost their homes, with approximately 80% of the community evacuated and displaced. This has left families feeling hopeless and lost. Without homes, children are left in limbo, with every day feeling different than the last and almost no sense of routine. One father, Edward, who attended with his daughter, shared the significance of continuity during this difficult time.

“We lost our house in the Palisades fire. And so we’ve been down in Orange County with family. And I think the most important thing for our girls is continuity and community.”

A Night of Joy and Community Through a Dance Party

The donations from friends of Operation Blessing provided a chance to reconnect, to heal, and to take one small step forward. This generosity gave parents the opportunity to dance the night away with their little ones and the community around them. The dance party came equipped with flashing colorful lights, ice cream, games, prizes, and even some balloon animals. For families like Edward’s, this dance party represents hope and a light at the end of the tunnel.

“Tonight is like a moment of normalcy in an otherwise crazy season,” said Justin, Pastor of Bel Air Church. “For two hours, they get to dance with their daughters, they get to play pop-a-shot, they get to eat more ice cream than a human should eat. They get to do things that normal people get to do.”

For Mary’s family, fun has been in short supply as they face uncertainty after the fires. But because of the generosity of Operation Blessing’s donors, they got to have a night to forget the chaos and laugh again. “Opportunities like this to just go out and have some fun—people who care—it’s really meaningful and moving and appreciated by the parents,” said Mary.

Thank You For Sharing Hope

Thanks to Operation Blessing’s supporters, the disaster relief team was able to make this night a reality. Supporters offered more than just assistance; they showcased the love of Christ to those facing dark times. By providing a dance party for wildfire victims, supporters gave them a sense of levity and peace after such a tumultuous season of tragedy.

“ All of the proceeds from these events are going to help those impacted by the fires,” said Haley Henson, Operation Blessing’s National Media Liaison. “During such a difficult and traumatic time, we wanted to bring some joy to these communities and let them know they’re not alone.”

“To all of our supporters, thank you for allowing us to be here, we couldn’t do it without you. Thank you for being the hands and feet of God to actually live out that faith of sacrificing for the sake of those who need it. It’s been humbling and overwhelming, and I’m just super thankful.” ~ Pastor Justin Anderson

About Operation Blessing

Operation Blessing (OB) provides humanitarian services such as strategic disaster relief, medical aid, hunger relief, clean water and community development. Founded in 1978, Operation Blessing has touched the lives of millions of people in more than 90 countries and every state.

Read more news on Humanitarian Services, California Wildfires, and Disaster Relief.