Doing Good in the LBC is a weekly newsletter where we’ll share how you can volunteer or give back in our city. We’ll also share the latest goings-on of nonprofit organizations in Long Beach.
‘It’s like a war zone out there right now’: How to help victims of Maui fires
By Caitlin Antonios
Mandira Tremblay has lived in Long Beach for over two decades, but Maui will always be her home.
It’s where she was born and raised. Her family and friends are still there, and the feeling of community with her fellow Hawaiians isn’t something that has just faded since she moved to Long Beach in 2001.
But when she went home last Monday, Aug. 7, with her two teenagers in tow to celebrate her best friend’s birthday the next day, she never could have anticipated they would experience the island’s devastating fires and be a part of the efforts to rebuild.
Places to volunteer in Long Beach
- The Long Beach Gray Panthers are seeking volunteers to help out at their monthly meetings, on the first Saturday of each month from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Long Beach Senior Center. Volunteers will help set up the registration table, set up food, greet attendees and make sure they sign in. Volunteers will receive breakfast as well as receive current information for seniors. Email [email protected] or call 562-336-1595 to get involved. The Senior Center is located at 1150 E. Fourth St.
- Help The Assistance League reach its goal of clothing 10,000 children by volunteering to pack and deliver school uniforms to LBUSD schools starting in late August. To participate, contact Oscar Reyes at 562- 627-5650.
- Join Meals on Wheels by delivering meals and spending a few minutes with those in need. You can volunteer to deliver meals once a week, once a month, with a friend, with a group or on your own. Get started by filling out the online form here.
Ways to give back in Long Beach
- ILWU Locals 13, 63 and 94 are collecting donations to be delivered to Maui. Donations can be dropped off at Memorial Hall until Aug. 17, and a list of suggested items can be found here. Monetary donations can also be made through the ILWU credit union, even as a non-member—information can be found here.
- Love in the Mirror is distributing school supplies on Aug. 26 during the second annual “Back to School Jam,” hosted by Councilmember Al Austin and Crossroads Long Beach. View a list of requested items and contribute online here.
- The Long Beach Rescue Mission is in need of a number of household items, from hygiene items, canned goods and learning center supplies. View a full list of items here. Please drop off items between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. at the Samaritan House, 1335 Pacific Ave.