In the aftermath of the Eaton Fire, Glendale Community College (GCC) responded swiftly and compassionately, providing critical relief to students and highlighting its deep commitment to care and connection.
Among those affected was Shirley Chavez, a part-time student and mother of four who lost her home in the fire.
“Glendale College was one of the first to check in on me amid all the chaos,” Chavez said. “It was such a surprise, and I was incredibly grateful for the support they offered. It made a huge difference.”
GCC staff took immediate action, personally reaching out to every student in impacted areas, offering gift cards, emergency funds, temporary housing, and extended support for displaced students with the help of the Glendale College Foundation and GCC CARES, the college’s basic needs program. Staff also prioritized academic assistance, helping students persist in their classes or facilitating a withdrawal from the semester if needed.
Even beyond financial assistance, the college community stepped up to offer additional meaningful support through supply drives that provided food, toiletries, socks, undergarments, t-shirts, and more.
“As somebody who was trying to help students and was also impacted by the fire myself, I am so grateful to be part of the Glendale College community,” Dr. Oukayan said. “To be a Caring Campus and to have the tools and mindset to respond with intention and empathy makes all the difference.”
GCC is currently undergoing a self-relaunch of Caring Campus, reaffirming its dedication to fostering a supportive, purposeful, and student-centered environment.
Click HERE to read the full story.