As wildfires burned just miles away in Los Angeles, Steven Otero, a resident of Skid Row living in a tent, experienced ash raining down on everything he owned, including his food and water. Despite having no underlying health issues, Otero struggled to breathe due to the poor air quality caused by the fires. Unhoused individuals on Skid Row faced challenges in protecting themselves from the fires’ effects, as they lacked access to clean drinking water and masks. Nonprofit organizations like Water Drop LA and the Refresh Spot stepped in to provide essential resources to Skid Row residents, including clean water and N95 masks. Water Drop LA has been delivering thousands of gallons of water to Skid Row each week, filling a critical need in the community. The wildfires and hurricane-force winds also destroyed many residents’ tents, prompting organizations like the Sidewalk Project to set up temporary housing solutions. Concerns over water quality led to warnings about drinking tap water in some communities near the fires, highlighting the importance of access to clean water for all individuals. The Refresh Spot offers 24/7 access to showers, laundry facilities, and drinking water, underscoring the need for more accessible resources for individuals experiencing homelessness. Despite the challenges faced by Skid Row residents during the wildfires, volunteers and organizations continue to provide vital support to the community.
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