"This is an important time for everyone to ask themselves, in addition to all the tzedakah and mitzvot that we are sharing with our community, 'is there something that I could use right now that would be helpful?'"

~ Jill Rice, LCSW

In the wake of the wildfires that are ravaging our city, we are grappling with grief, anxiety, and uncertainty. The stress of the moment can feel overwhelming, but it’s important to remember that our mental and emotional well-being should be prioritized, not only in times of crisis but throughout our lives. The Jewish prayer for healing, Mi Shebeirach, beautifully expresses the need for balance with the phrase refuat hanefesh v’refuat haguf—healing of both spirit and body. This reminds us that caring for our emotional and spiritual health is just as vital as caring for our physical well-being.

At Temple Judea, we are lucky to have many highly trained mental health professionals within our congregation. We spoke to just a few of them over the weekend to ask for insights that could help our collective healing. Interestingly, they all responded with some variation on the same idea: that the act of receiving, or even asking for help, is something that can feel uncomfortable, inappropriate or bothersome.  And yet, it is at those very moments, when we are overcome with anxiety, fear, or loss, when we need help the most. 

Our annual theme, Kol Yisrael Aravim Zeh b’Zeh—all Israel is responsible for one another— is not just about the support we can give, but also about the support that we need. When we help, our community becomes stronger.  By leaning on one another, our community becomes more connected. 

We know that many in our community are grieving losses—whether it’s the trauma of losing a home, a sense of security, or a familiar routine. Temple Judea has compiled a list of resources to help strengthen mental resilience during times of loss, as well as guidance for supporting children as they process these difficult events, at TJ's  mental wellness hub Wellbeing of the Soul. 

Started during COVID, this resource provides valuable information, articles, and support—not just for those affected by the fires, but for anyone facing mental health struggles. We will continue to update and expand this collection to provide the tools and guidance needed for anyone on their journey to healing. Remember, you do not have to walk this path alone. Temple Judea is here to walk alongside you. 

*With special thanks to TJ members Margaret Altschul, Samantha Bothast, and Jill Rice for lending their expertise to both this article and this initiative.

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WILDFIRE RECOVERY & RESOURCES

LEND A HAND -- Tuesday, Jan. 14 @ 9-10am (drop off/assembly), 10-11am (sorting). Thank you to everyone who donated and helped out yesterday as we packed 50 "go bags" for our firefighters! This morning we invite you to drop donations from 9-10am and stick around to help assemble another 100 "go bags". We are accepting: blankets, diapers, baby wipes, feminine hygiene products, masks, new socks and underwear, chapstick, eyedrops, new or gently used clothing. Then from 10-11am we'll sort donations for distribution to our partners. This will be our last collection (for now). Everyone is welcome to pitch in!

REACH OUT -- If you’re coping with any sort of crisis from the fires - mental or physical - we want to help. Whether you need a listening ear or more specific assistance, please don't hesitate to contact us at   or call 818-758-3800 x209. We promise to treat your information with the utmost care and discretion. 

GET HELP -- For additional resources for coping with the emotional impact of the wildfires, Samantha Bothast, LCSW, suggests THIS ARTICLE and Margaret Altschul, LCSW shared THIS WEBSITE from the LACPA. Visit TJ's Wellbeing of the Soul initiative for additional mental health resources. The Jewish Federation of Los Angeles Wildfire Hub also contains numerous resources for those seeking help and those looking to lend a hand.