ACCEF Visited Station 52 After Raising over $16,000 to Support San Diego Firefighters Amid Wildfire Crisis
San Diego, CA – February 10, 2025
On February 7, 2025, American Chinese Culture and Education Foundation (ACCEF) board members, several ACCEF donors, and two students from Youth Care Club (YCC) visited San Diego Fire Station 52 to present the donation of over $16,000 that ACCEF has raised to support the San Diego Fire-Rescue Department following the widespread wildfires in Los Angeles (LA) and multiple fire outbreaks in San Diego County.
As wildfires were raging in LA, board members and members of ACCEF brainstormed on how to support firefighting efforts and keep our local community safe. From this, our fundraising campaign in companionship with the San Diego Fire-Rescue Department was developed. YCC, an ACCEF affiliated youth charity organization, also joined the effort. In just a month, the campaign raised over $16,000, with more than 130 people(complete list) contributing to the cause. The donation aims to provide additional resources and support for our brave and selfless firefighters battling the devastating blazes.
To recognize ACCEF’s contribution, San Diego Fire Department invited ACCEF and YCC representatives to visit Station 52, the newest fire station in San Diego, and a key force in battling the recent Gilman Fire on January 24, 2025. During their visit, they met with the Battalion Chief, along with the station’s Captain, engineer, and firefighters. The crew provided a detailed tour of the station – they showcased their firefighting equipment, their on-site dorms, and shared insights into their daily responsibilities and the challenges they face on the front lines. ACCEF members also introduced the organization and how it aims to service its community to the firefighters. The exchange between our ACCEF and YCC members and the firefighters was interactive and engaging, deepening our connection and understanding of each other.
ACCEF President, Mrs. Cai, expressed deep gratitude to both donors and first responders, highlighting the critical role of community support during natural disasters. Acknowledging the growing threat of wildfires and other emergencies, she emphasized ACCEF’s ongoing commitment to support for local first responders to keep our local community safe.
For those interested in contributing, ACCEF continues to accept donations to assist local fire departments and emergency responders.