News Releases

The fundraiser benefited 17 LADA families who lost their homes or sustained significant financial hardship during the devastating wildfires in January

ARCADIA, CA – On January 11, District Attorney Nathan J. Hochman attended a fundraising event for the LA County DA Foundation that raised over $50,000 to benefit 17 LADA families who lost their homes or sustained significant financial hardship during the tragic Los Angeles wildfires. Proceeds were also raised to benefit first responders who have tirelessly worked to protect the community during this time.

“When I learned that many of my own colleagues had lost their homes and our residents were struggling with significant damage, I knew we couldn’t afford to delay our efforts to support them,” District Attorney Hochman said. “As District Attorney, it is important not just to talk about raising funds to help those in need but to actually help raise them and provide them to those who are suffering now and for the months and years to come.”

After the Palisades and Eaton fires erupted on January 7, hundreds of thousands of residents were forced to evacuate their homes as first responders battled the deadly wildfires that tore through various Los Angeles County communities including in the cities of Pacific Palisades and Altadena. Lives were lost and thousands of homes were destroyed.

David Chao, CEO of ERS Security Alarms and fundraising host, reflected on the importance of giving back during times of crisis.

“As a leader in the fire alarms and public safety industries for nearly 40 years, I’ve seen the devastating toll fires take on families and businesses,” Chao said. “Many of my clients have been personally affected by these wildfires, and I felt it was my duty to rally our friends to help. It’s in moments like these that it is the most important that we give back to our community.”

Aidan Chao, chairman of the Los Angeles County Taxpayers Association and co-host of the fundraiser, stated, “During such a widespread disaster, where so many dear friends and fellow Angelenos need to rebuild their lives from ashes, we felt it was necessary to work with District Attorney Hochman, a strong partner for all of our initiatives, to provide immediate relief to victims and first responders.”

District Attorney Hochman thanked the Chao family for hosting the event, praised the community’s ability to unite under difficult circumstances, and reconfirmed his commitment to keeping the community safe from wildfire-related crimes as the county enters a long road of recovery.

“This event has been a testament to the strength of LA County’s community, as we have come together to support our neighbors, friends, family, and those who dedicate themselves to public safety,” DA Hochman said.

For more information about how to support ongoing relief efforts, visit: lacountydafoundation.com.

 District Attorney Nathan J. Hochman and the Chao family

District Attorney Nathan J. Hochman and Aidan Chao

###