Jennifer Garner is currently watching as the place she has lived for 25 years burns, and she is doing everything she can to help, all while coping with a devastating loss.
Wildfires have ravaged Los Angeles, turning parts of the well-known suburbs into ash and rubble. The world watches in shock as dramatic footage and heartbreaking photos show the destruction of places that were once family homes.
So far, more than 10,000 structures have been destroyed, including many celebrity mansions, and there have been seven fatalities, according to American media reports. Among the victims is Jennifer Garner’s friend, whom she became close to through their local church.
“I lost a friend. This is very difficult for our church, and I feel like we shouldn’t talk about her just yet,” Jennifer said with a trembling voice to MSNBC. “I lost a friend who didn’t make it out in time.”
Garner has lived in Pacific Palisades for about 25 years and started volunteering as soon as the fires broke out, wanting to help her community as much as possible.
“My heart breaks for my friends. I mean, I can think of 100 families right now. Over 5,000 homes have been lost. Without hesitation, I could list 100 friends who’ve lost their homes,” said a visibly shaken Jennifer, who admitted she feels guilty for being one of the lucky ones.
“I almost feel guilty walking through my house. You know, what can I do? How can I help? What can I offer? What can I give with these hands, these walls, and the safety I still have?” the distressed actress said.
Jennifer has been distributing meals to those affected in collaboration with the nonprofit organization World Central Kitchen, led by renowned chef José Andrés. Prince Harry and Meghan Markle also joined Andrés and his team on the ground. The actress said she is deeply impressed by the team’s response to this crisis.
