Community rallies to provide Thanksgiving dinners amid Rancho Palos Verdes landslide crisis

In November 2024, residents of Rancho Palos Verdes, California, faced significant challenges due to a landslide impacting the Portuguese Bend neighborhood. Approximately 650 homes were affected, with many experiencing severe structural damage, such as slanted foundations, cracks, and even the threat of collapsing into sinkholes. As a result, electrical and gas services were disrupted for numerous homes earlier that year, further complicating the living conditions of the impacted families. In light of these difficulties, local organizations including the Rotary Club and Community Home Owners Association joined forces with Palos Verdes Peninsula Realtors and City Hall to orchestrate a community effort providing holiday support. During this holiday season, efforts culminated in the distribution of more than 230 Thanksgiving dinners, prepared and packaged by the Terranea Resort. The initiative was driven by a desire to support residents who may be living in their damaged homes without the necessary resources to prepare a festive meal. For many, including residents like Nancy Katlhoff, participating in the delivery of meals offered a sense of connection and community during a time of distress. One resident, Cornee Gerrard, who was 84 years old, expressed gratitude for the support, noting that she received multiple meals for her and her daughter, who was visiting from out of town. With her home’s precarious condition, characterized by slanted walls and cracks, the gesture of receiving a Thanksgiving dinner meant a lot to her. The damaged state of her home and the situations of others in the area exemplified the ongoing impact of the landslide, highlighting the community's resilience in facing adversity. As families such as Gerrard's prepared to celebrate Thanksgiving, the holiday spirit was grounded in shared experiences and the acknowledgment of their struggles. Despite the difficult circumstances, the community's outreach efforts helped to remind residents that they weren't alone, fostering a sense of hope and support amidst ongoing challenges. The collaboration among local organizations and residents demonstrated the strong bonds within the community, showcasing how collective efforts can provide relief and joy even in the toughest of times.