California First Partner Visits Pierce College to Support Fire Response Efforts
Amid the challenges of wildfires sweeping through Southern California, Pierce welcomed California First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom on Tuesday, January 14, 2025 to our Equestrian Center, where a large animal evacuation shelter has been operating in partnership with L.A. County Animal Care and Control. The shelter is currently home to approximately 225 animals, including horses, alpacas, goats, sheep, chickens, and pigs.
During her visit, the First Partner met volunteers and staff, offering gratitude for their tireless efforts. She also had a special moment with Loretta Mae, a miniature horse who usually serves as a therapy animal for children with disabilities. Loretta Mae, like so many other animals, are finding safety and care at the Pierce shelter during the crisis.
Pierce College students from the Pre-Veterinary, Registered Veterinary Technician, and Equine Sciences Club played a pivotal role in the shelter's success. Under the leadership of farm management staff and faculty, they constructed modular pens to expand the shelter’s capacity and provided hands-on care to the animals last Wednesday evening during the peak of the fires. These efforts highlight the students' dedication and demonstrates the practical, community-oriented education that Pierce College offers.
The Pierce College Farm has been a cornerstone of the response, ensuring displaced animals are well cared for. However, this vital work depends on the community’s support. In addition to monetary donations, some items needed for shelter operations include:
- Heavy-duty water hoses
- 50+ gallon portable water tanks
- Hay feed (Timothy or Alfalfa)
- Shavings bedding
Donations can be delivered daily between 6:00 AM and 4:30 PM, with Animal Control officers available onsite 24/7 to assist. For those needing donation letters, the Pierce College Foundation is happy to provide them.
Your contributions will help ensure these animals continue to receive the care they need during this challenging time. To support the wildfire relief efforts, please visit the Pierce College Foundation Wildfire Support Page. Stay safe and take care of yourselves!
