Filipino restaurant launches donation drive for LA fire victims

Photos from Titos Bar and Restaurant/Facebook

Amid the devastating wildfires sweeping through Los Angeles County, Filipino-owned Titos Bistro and Restaurant in West Covina has taken the initiative to aid those affected by the crisis. 

With the support of Filipino American businesses and local community members, the restaurant, owned by Charina Vergara, has set up a donation hub to help evacuees and support the courageous firefighters on the frontlines.

Since igniting on Jan. 7, the wildfires have displaced more than 180,000 residents, destroyed homes and tragically claimed lives.

Titos Bistro delivered donations to the Hilton Garden Inn in Pomona, where 175 families forced from their homes by the Eaton Fire were housed. 

“The donations will be brought to the Hilton Garden Inn in Pomona, which is housing 175 families greatly affected by the Eaton Fire,” read a post from the restaurant’s social media page.

In addition to organizing relief for the displaced families, Tito’s Bistro offered free pizza to firefighters as a gesture of gratitude for their relentless efforts. 

“To all the brave firefighters battling the fires, stop by Titos for FREE pizza—our small way of saying THANK YOU for your service. Let us fuel you up as you keep us safe. Stay strong!”

The donation drive was held at Tito’s Bistro’s patio, located at 2520 S. Azusa Avenue, West Covina. Community members dropped off much-needed supplies listed on the flyer shared by the restaurant.

“We will deliver pizzas to our firefighters! We’ve dropped off pizzas at the Pasadena command center last Thursday night. We want to deliver to other areas. If you have leads where they are staying to rest, please let us know,” Tito’s Bistro added.

Notably, several Filipino celebrities such as Iñigo Pascual, Ivana Alawi, Ylona Garcia and Kelsey Merritt, who have ties to Los Angeles, have expressed concern over the wildfire’s impact on residents.