As fires devastated the Los Angeles area this month, Chapman University’s Athletics Department, Student Veterans of America (SVA) chapter and Facilities Management Department led relief efforts to support affected families. Their actions, alongside others in the community, underscore the university’s commitment to compassion and service during times of crisis.
The Athletics Department began its initiative on Jan. 11 during a swim meet against Occidental College. Jessi Lumsden, an administrator and Chapman Athletics alumna, described how the effort took shape: “We had heard in our athletics community about athletes, their families, or friends being affected by the fires. As a department, we felt it was crucial to act immediately to support them in any way we could. We started accepting donations at the meet, and it gained steam from there.”
Donations of clothing, non-perishable food, toiletries and other essentials poured in from students, coaches, staff and the broader community. To maximize the impact, the Athletics Department set up collection points across campus to quickly distribute resources. Any unclaimed items will be sent to organizations like the Orange Fire Department and YMCA for distribution.
Meanwhile, the Chapman SVA mobilized its efforts by leveraging its national network and strategic planning. Led by chapter president Jake Slocum, the group collaborated with Ralph Figueroa from Cal State San Bernardino and other national leaders in the Student Veterans of America organization to provide targeted relief.
Using a real-time Amazon wish list, the SVA identified and delivered critical items to a temporary American Red Cross shelter at Bob Hope Patriotic Hall in Whittier. The shelter housed veterans and their families displaced by the fires, as the West LA VA facility faced direct threats from the flames. Within one week, the initiative raised an estimated $20,000 and over 200 Amazon orders, ensuring essential supplies like food, water and hygiene products reached those in need.
“This wasn’t about just collecting items; it was about making sure the right help got to the right people immediately,” Slocum explained.
“I am both greatly proud and impressed by the quickness and scope of our Chapman Veterans’ work. They have consistently demonstrated a commitment to serving their community, and their efforts here certainly reflect that commitment,” said Dean of Students Jerry Price.
Reflecting on the collective effort, Sports Information Director Steven Olveda added, “Being in Southern California, we knew we had personal connections to those affected. Many of our students and athletes are from nearby regions. It was essential to act quickly and make an immediate impact.”
Jenny Kaufman, energy conservation and sustainability manager in Facilities Management, spearheaded another donation drive and collaborated with departments such as Student Affairs, Event Operations, Campus Planning, Financial Services, Legal, Risk Management, Public Safety, Facilities Management and Strategic Marketing and Communications. The relief effort resulted in an incredible outpouring of support, with 156 boxes, bags and packages of essential items donated by Chapman community members and Orange residents. These donations, identified by the YMCA of Metropolitan Los Angeles, included cleaning supplies, non-perishable foods, snacks, school supplies and diapers. Approximately 20 staff and student volunteers worked in shifts to manage the collection area, ensuring an efficient process.
As recovery efforts continue, all groups emphasize the need for sustained support.
“Rebuilding will take time,” Lumsden noted. “We must stay ready to help in any way we can.”
View more wildfire updates and resources here.
