On Saturday, March 1, 150 guests – mostly displaced Altadena residents who lost their homes to devastating fires – gathered for a day of respite, reflection, and renewal.
This special event, “A Gathering of Love Luncheon,” provided a rare opportunity for fire victims — many of them seniors — to reconnect with neighbors, share their experiences, and find support in a compassionate environment.
Organized by Sandra Evers-Manly and her Black Hollywood Education and Resource Center (BHERC), the gathering brought together crucial community partners including Lift International Church of Pasadena under Pastor Anthony McFarland, and I Choose Life Foundation led by President Tony Wafford as a result of BHERC Operation Love.
Related Stories
Toros Women’s Basketball Earns 2025 Western Regional Title
Displaced Black Families GoFund Me Directory
The BHERC Team witnessed firsthand the emotional toll on seniors while personally shopping for and delivering essential items to affected families. They provided support for those wanting to view their burned homes where decades of memories were built, along with companionship through the bewildering maze of insurance claims and paperwork.
The emotional day resonated deeply with attendees, some of whom were reuniting for the first time since the fires. Many shared their painful journeys, the loss of their homes, the struggle to find affordable housing, and the distressing reality of outside interests attempting to purchase their land during this vulnerable time.
“I hadn’t had a home-cooked meal since before the fires,” one senior told Evers-Manly, inspiring her to organize this gathering.
In her opening remarks, Evers-Manly reflected on Altadena’s special place in her heart since her college days at USC:. “It was an area filled with so much history, pride, love and respect… The richness and unity,” she said.
The day featured a welcome by Drs. Anthony and Micheline McFarland of Lift International Church, prize drawings throughout the day by the I Choose Life Foundation, music performances by Darrell Alston and friends, and the Blue Violin. Altadena advocate and Pasadena community leader Lena Kennedy offered words of encouragement, stressing the importance of not selling their property and encouraging rebuilding.
Guests enjoyed a festive meal catered by Chef Armond of Keys to Catering, complimented by Gwen Vance Specialty Cakes and Catering desserts. Members of the Southern California Chapter of Black Social Workers provided essential emotional support throughout the event. More than 20 volunteers ensured the care of all 150 guests.
Community Champion Diane Henry, a former Altadena resident whose family lost a home, stated, “Serving with BHERC has allowed me to witness love-in-action.”
Guests received gift certificates to Octavia Books of Pasadena, a Black-owned business, and gift bags. Those who lost their homes received a monetary gift along with the commitment of an additional gift for those who signed up and attended next month’s follow-up.
“Many of these seniors have been scattered to the winds, living in crowded hotel rooms, cycling through Airbnb’s every few days, or doubled up with relatives from Riverside to Santa Clarita and beyond,” noted Evers-Manly. “Beyond losing their homes, they have lost community connections. This luncheon created a space where those impacted by the fires could exhale, embrace familiar faces, and feel surrounded by friends and love.”
In the days following the event, BHERC and its partners received messages from many attendees. “You brought more than just food and gifts,” wrote one elderly resident. “You restored our dignity and reminded us we haven’t been forgotten.” Another message simply stated, “Thank you for remembering us when we had lost everything.”
