Reflecting on the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. in light of the wildfire devastation
A message from Brian Helleland Chief Executive Providence St. Joseph Hospital & Orange County/High Desert, South Division

On Monday, we celebrate and recognize the contributions of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. He is a hero of mine and in especially challenging moments, I find his wisdom helpful. As we mourn the heartbreaking loss from the wildfires in Los Angeles, Dr. King’s insight can provide guidance to help us move forward together.  

Dr. King’s legacy is that of justice and equality, but at the root of his drive was a vision for a just community for all, a place where every person can thrive. In a statement following the Supreme Court ruling that desegregated Montgomery buses, Dr. King referenced the importance of choosing to build such a community.  

“...the end is reconciliation; the end is redemption; the end is the creation of the Beloved Community. It is this type of spirit and this type of love that can transform opponents into friends. It is this type of understanding goodwill that will transform the deep gloom of the old age into the exuberant gladness of the new age. It is this love which will bring about miracles in the hearts of men.” 

In this moment, as we process the devastation happening before our eyes, it is community that will lift us up. Community will help victims recover, rebuild and find their footing – just like in the spirit of the Sisters of St. Joseph of Orange. Through our history, we know this well at St. Joseph Hospital. We’ve seen the way a community rallies around a loved one in our care. We must commit to do the same.  

When so much has been lost, we need each other to overcome, and Dr. King is a powerful reminder of that.  

To support caregivers and physicians impacted by the fires, Providence has established LA Fire Emergency Response Funds. Caregivers can use payroll deduction. 

In addition, St. Joseph Fund is engaging with local disaster response partners and collaborating with regional grantmaking partners to help meet immediate and long-term needs. Financial donations allow our fully vetted and trusted partners to act more efficiently and swiftly to support the most urgent needs of those affected communities. 

• Catholic Charities USA: Los Angeles Wildfire Relief Fund  
• Center for Disaster Philanthropy: California Wildfire Recovery Fund 
• California Community Foundation: Wildfire Recovery Fund

I also want to make sure you’re aware of the many caregiver resources available: Disaster Resources - South Division 

Drawing inspiration from Dr. Martin Luther King's profound vision of unity and compassion, the remarkable outpouring of generosity shown in response to the California wildfires underscores the enduring power of collective action and empathy in uplifting and supporting those in need. Thanks to all who’ve already donated or volunteered to help. 

Brian Helleland
Chief Executive
Providence St. Joseph Hospital & 
Orange County/High Desert, South Division