The photo to the right (or above on mobile devices) is what remains of our beloved LBM Teacher Jampa Kalsang’s family home in Altadena. The Buddha statue has been with Jampa for 30 years.
Our hearts go out to Jampa and his family. In an update on his family’s GoFund Me page, Jampa writes, “This is the most difficult experience my family and I have gone through. I can honestly say that due to Dharma practice I don’t feel overwhelmed by this. But I’m overwhelmed by the love and support we’ve received from family, friends, and folks we’ve never met. We lost everything. And have everything. “
To donate via Jampa’s Family GoFundMe, please click here.
There is some recent good news: they have found a rental home in Monrovia and will be moving in soon! They are in need of clothing and household items.
Vincente, Jampa’s stepson, could use size medium tees, pajama bottoms, and socks, while Jampa’s wife Maria, also a medium, would appreciate sweaters, sleepwear, and other clothing items.
To donate items of clothing and/or household goods, please email Christine Pham at christine@longbeachmeditation.org. Christine lives in Long Beach and has graciously volunteered to collect these items.
The Seas Family: Jampa, Maria, and Vincente
Jampa is leading our Sunday Dharma this coming weekend on January 19th. His topic is “It’s the End of the World as We Know It, and I Feel Fine.” You can support Jampa in person or online. Details are on our Sunday Dharma page.
Jampa is showing up for us in the most trying circumstances. Let’s show up for Jampa and his family in return.
Donate to Others in Need
So many have been affected by the LA wildfires. Below is a list of reputable organizations provided by Bay Shore Community Church, where we rent space. If you would like to donate to these organizations, please visit the links below:
The United Church of Christ (Bay Shore Church’s denomination):
https://support.ucc.org/california-wildfires-2025
The UCC has a long history of disaster response and works with local organizations to help with both immediate needs and long-term recovery; all funds donated through this site will go to relief efforts.
Habitat LA
https://www.habitatla.org
Habitat LA has a long-term commitment to housing needs in our area.
Pasadena Humane Society:
https://give.pasadenahumane.org/give/654134
They have taken in over 400 animals since the Eaton fire started.
World Central Kitchen:
https://wck.org/en-us/relief/california-fires-jan25
They consistently feed people in need all over the globe whenever there is a disaster.