When disaster strikes, the road to recovery can feel overwhelming. After the devastating Los Angeles fires earlier this year, many families were left with nothing — forced to start over from scratch. That’s where the Society of St. Vincent de Paul’s House in a Box™ program steps in, offering essential support during one of the most difficult times in a family’s life.
What is House in a Box™?
House in a Box™ is a special program that provides essential household items to fire survivors who have lost everything. Families receive home necessities — beds, linens, dishes, cookware, dressers, silverware, bathroom essentials, dining sets, and a comfortable couch — delivered straight to their new homes through Amazon. It’s called “House in a Box™” because the items arrive boxed and ready to help families rebuild their lives with dignity and comfort.
Who We Serve
The program focuses on families affected by natural disasters, and currently the Los Angeles council is focusing on the LA fires, including those in areas like Altadena and the Pacific Palisades. Referrals come from local parishes, those who find us online, or by word-of-mouth from others who have been supported through House in a Box™. Individuals in need of assistance are referred to our Vincentian Conferences of Charity volunteer groups. When applicable, our Vincentian volunteers begin the intake process for House in a Box™. These encounters also provide an opportunity to connect with families further, offering additional services or referring them to other available resources.
The Impact of House in a Box™
As of today, we have completed 45 House in a Box™ kits, successfully furnishing homes for families affected by the disaster. Our main focus is to ensure a high standard of compassionate care for each individual and family we serve. The program is part of a broader disaster recovery effort that goes beyond furnishings—helping families restore a sense of stability and hope.
The gratitude we hear from families speaks volumes about the impact of this program:
“Furnishing a home, even with just the basics, can feel monumental after a disaster. The cost, the time, the decision fatigue — it’s overwhelming. Having everything we needed just show up at the door was such a gift. I had cereal out of a bowl this morning — such a treat! The sheets, lamps, and kitchen utensils will all be put to good use.” – Evelyn H
Another recipient shared:
“We are so incredibly grateful. Everything we received has made such a difference. The quality, the thoughtfulness — it made our new space feel like home again.”
– Melissa S.
These moments remind us that small comforts — a bowl for breakfast, clean sheets to sleep on — become powerful symbols of hope and new beginnings.
Funded by Compassion
House in a Box™ is currently funded by the Society of St. Vincent de Paul Council of Los Angeles and donations collected during the fire outbreak. As a nonprofit organization, our mission remains rooted in compassionate service to those in need, especially during times of crisis.
How to Get Involved
We welcome support in a variety of ways: through donations, sponsorships, and volunteer opportunities. Our Conferences are always open to new members to engage in meaningful work to support their communities, and there are opportunities to sponsor a House in a Box™ kit. To learn more or get involved, visit: https://svdpla.org/find-assistance/.
Need Support?
If you or someone you know was affected by the fires and is in need of assistance, please contact us at vincentianservices@svdpla.org. We are here to help.
Together, we can continue to deliver hope to those who need it the most!
