Mireya Piña, Family Support Services Supervisor at Little House by the Park (LHP) in Guadalupe, knew the situation was dire the morning of January 9, 2023 when her phone started ringing off the hook. Residents of the community were calling to request help to escape the flooding that was threatening homes and lives.
“We had families whose kids were sleeping on the floor and were now covered in mud,” said Pina. “A senior resident found herself up to her chest in water. No one knew where to go for help.”
Ten families, a total of 47 individuals, were displaced by the flooding. Guadalupe received 3.4 inches of rain on January 9.
LHP family advocates, including one who spoke Mixteco, assisted in mobilizing community and civic organizations. They directed residents to City Hall where they received additional assistance and information. Over the next few days and into the holiday weekend, LHP remained open as a haven for support. Advocates contacted eight hotels in Pismo Beach to secure donations of blankets and pillows for those in need. LHP continues to work with the County Housing Authority to secure housing for some of the families who are still not able to return to their homes.
“It was heartwarming to see the community come together to help its own,” said Pina. “We felt like we were First Responders! So many residents gave their time and treasure to help their neighbors. We had a young man donate a pair of freshly washed jeans, (we could smell the fabric softener!) and asked us to give them to someone who needed pants. It made me proud to be a part of this community.”
The Little House By The Park has provided supportive services to families in the Guadalupe area since 1992. To learn more about its programs and services, visit https://fsacares.org/little-house/.
