The wildfires that swept through Los Angeles left many families devastated, including Rasheeda Dove’s.
The firestorm forced her family to flee their home, with embers striking their car as they drove away.
“It was so scary. So many fires were going on all around us. The embers were hitting our car. It was morning, but it was really dark. It was like a movie set,” Rasheeda recalled.
When she returned, everything was gone.
The home she had known was reduced to rubble, along with her business—a handcrafted body care company specializing in shea butters, scrubs, soaps, and oils. The loss was overwhelming, but she found strength in her family and community support.
Thankfully, Operation Blessing stepped in to provide much-needed relief.
The organization supplied Rasheeda with tools and raw ingredients to help her relaunch her body care business and candle-making business. She now operates from home, bringing in revenue while working toward securing a new location after the LA fire.
“We thought we were just going to come back in the morning, and everything would be the same,” she said. “Then we went back, and that was devastating. Nothing was left. It was just rubbish.”
That is why the livelihood assistance she received from Operation Blessing was a huge help. Despite the hardship, Rasheeda remains focused on moving forward. She stays connected with former clients and receives encouragement from those eager to see her business thrive again.
Her parents, who lost their home as well during the LA fire, serve as a source of motivation.
“I tell them all the time how much I love them. Whenever they thank me, I remind them I’m just showing them the love they have given me,” Rasheeda said.
Operation Blessing’s support has been important in her recovery after the LA fire. With essential supplies and donor contributions, Rasheeda is rebuilding her business and looking toward the future with hope.
“To Operation Blessing and everyone who has worked with them, and to the donors who have supplied me with everything I needed—I just appreciate it. I’m thankful that I’ll be able to resume my livelihood.”
Though the journey has been difficult, Rasheeda and her family remain strong. “We can start all over, This only makes us stronger,” her father said.
Stories like Rasheeda’s, or any LA fire survivor, show the power of kindness and community support. You can be part of this life-changing work. Your donation or volunteer efforts to Operation Blessing can help families rebuild and regain hope after disasters.
Partner with us today and bring relief to those in need. Visit Operation Blessing’s website to learn more about the work we do!
