January 31, 2025 | fuelrelieffund
When disaster strikes, every little bit of help counts. For families affected by the devastating Eaton Fire in Los Angeles, a simple tank of gas can mean the difference between being stuck or moving forward. That’s why the Fuel Relief Fund (FRF) stepped in with a unique solution—prepaid gasoline gift cards.
A Mission of Relief and Recovery
Beginning on January 19, 2025, FRF volunteers Joe Lee and Justin Castellanos were on the ground in Altadena and Pasadena, California, delivering several hundred $50 prepaid gasoline gift cards. Their goal? To ensure that over 660 families in the Eaton Fire zone could continue evacuating, commuting to work, and rebuilding their lives after losing so much.
The Power of Partnerships
FRF’s mission wouldn’t be possible without strong community partnerships. Thanks to the support of California Fuels & Convenience Alliance (CFCA) and its CEO Elizabeth Graham, as well as Care Closet LBC and its Founder and CEO Duke Givens, FRF was able to reach families in need. The prepaid fuel cards were distributed through local churches, including Victory Bible Church, Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Catholic Church, Christ Church Sierra Madre, and Chapel Grove Missionary Baptist Church.
For many, the relief came at a critical time. Alicia Hazelton, Director of Outreach at Victory Bible Church, shared heartbreaking stories of families who lost everything. “One of our church members was on vacation and came home to find their house and cars gone,” she said. “Another family lost their pet along with their home and vehicle. Thank you, Fuel Relief Fund, from our hearts to yours for making a difference!”
Fueling Hope in a Time of Crisis
Traditionally, FRF deploys to disaster-stricken areas and sets up temporary gas stations to provide free fuel. However, with intact gas stations still available in LA, they took a different approach—handing out prepaid fuel cards. This innovative method allowed affected families to make their own choices about how to use the fuel assistance, whether for evacuation, work, or essential travel.
“Our goal is to help those in need, whether it be from earthquakes, hurricanes, or wildfires,” says Karly Cady, Co-chair of the Fuel Relief Fund Board of Directors. “Although this wasn’t our typical deployment, we knew we could still make an impact.”
The Critical Role of Fuel in Disaster Relief
Fuel is more than just a commodity—it’s a lifeline. In disasters, fuel is essential for cooking, refrigerating food, purifying water, and heating homes. Without it, people can’t power medical equipment, charge phones to locate loved ones, or drive to safety. First responders rely on fuel to conduct search and rescue missions, transport patients, and keep critical infrastructure running.
That’s why FRF exists. As the world’s only charitable organization focused exclusively on emergency fuel assistance, FRF provides life-saving fuel in dire situations. Their expertise in fuel logistics and humanitarian aid makes them a vital resource in disaster response.
How You Can Help
Fuel Relief Fund is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that operates solely through donations and partnerships. If you’d like to support their efforts and help families impacted by disasters, consider donating or getting involved.
To learn more about Fuel Relief Fund and their mission, visit FuelReliefFund.org.
Together, we can fuel hope and rebuild lives—one tank at a time.
