Support Trauma Relief for Children Affected by the Los Angeles Fires

Last week, the worst LA wildfire in recent memory engulfed Los Angeles and surrounding areas of California. While the immediate focus is on saving lives and homes, the emotional toll on children and families will persist long after the flames are extinguished.

My name is Natalia Peschiera Picasso, I am a Healing Educator and I am part of Emergency Pedagogy Without Borders – Team USA. Founded in the work of Bernd Ruf’s Emergency Pedagogy and Rudolf Steiner’s Anthroposophy, we are a team of Waldorf educators and art therapists trained to help children process trauma through creative, structured, and developmentally appropriate activities. We step into communities affected by disasters to provide emotional relief and help prevent the long-term effects of trauma, such as PTSD, particularly in children.

Why This Work Matters?

In the aftermath of disasters like these fires, children often face emotional turmoil. Their behaviors may change; they may withdraw, regress in their developmental milestones, act out, or display fear and anxiety. This is a normal response to trauma, but without proper intervention, it can evolve into something far more challenging. Our aim is to provide tools and support so that children and families can process their experiences and begin to heal.

Mission:

on February 8th , I will travel to Los Angeles to support children and families affected by this disaster. Alongside my team, I will deliver workshops that include art, storytelling, movement, and other therapeutic activities designed to alleviate the emotional burden of trauma. This work has proven transformative in previous interventions, including my recent mission to North Carolina after Hurricane Helene.

I live in Florida and most of my team mates are based in various states across the country. We each either pay for our own expenses or individually fundraise.

After Los Angeles, we will return to North Carolina for a second visit, where we will focus on educating teachers, parents, and other adults to continue this work long-term without us. Additionally, I anticipate a return to California for a second intervention to ensure continued support for the communities affected by this devastating fire., also with the aim of providing the tools they would need to carry on without our direct help in the future.

Why do I Need Your Support?

Unlike rebuilding homes, which rightly garners a lot of attention, trauma relief is often overlooked despite its lasting impact. I am raising funds to cover transportation, lodging, meals, and work materials for my missions to both Los Angeles and North Carolina. During my previous mission, I covered all costs myself, but this time, I need your help to continue this important work.

I will upload evidence and pictures of my missions, as well as keeping you updated on any developments.

Any additional funds raised will be used for future missions to California or other areas impacted by disasters, ensuring that this critical trauma-relief work continues wherever it is needed most.

Let’s Make a Difference Together!

With your help, we can give children and families the tools to process their experiences and move forward with strength and resilience.

Thank you for your generosity

Natalia Peschiera Picasso

Emergency Pedagogy Without Borders – Team USA

link

LA Fire

What is Emergency Pedagogy

NC-Asheville intervention with Parents

Photo by Nikki Shoneman

NC-Asheville intervention with children