Barger Honors Social Workers’ Heroism After Eaton Fire as L.A. County Supervisors Declare March National Social Work Month

Supervisor Barger poses with representatives from Sycamores, Five Acres, and Bourne Family Services during today’s Board of Supervisors meeting (Photo credit: Bryan Chan/L.A. County)

Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors Chair Kathryn Barger today honored three foster youth agencies—Five Acres, Sycamores, and Bourne Family Services—for their extraordinary dedication and swift action in response to the Eaton Fire. Their heroic efforts ensured the safety and well-being of vulnerable children in the midst of the crisis.

The recognition comes as the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors unanimously approved a motion by Supervisor Barger proclaiming March 2025 as National Social Work Month in Los Angeles County. This designation aligns with the National Association of Social Workers’ theme, “Social Work: Compassion + Action,” highlighting the indispensable role social workers play in uplifting the county’s most vulnerable residents during times of hardship.

Foster Youth Agencies’ Heroic Response to the Eaton Fire

Five Acres

Established in 1888, Five Acres was prepared for disaster when the Eaton Fire swept through Altadena. Upon receiving an evacuation order in the early morning of January 8, the Five Acres team swiftly relocated both their Short Term Residential Therapeutic Program and Shelter Care within 15 minutes. Once safely evacuated, social workers provided ongoing support, including care for a six-year-old who had arrived at the shelter just hours before.

“Despite the terrifying circumstances, the Five Acres team remained an unwavering anchor for foster youth,” said Supervisor Kathryn Barger. “Even with 25% of their staff displaced by the fire, their professionalism and dedication never wavered. They put children first, and that is truly commendable.”

Sycamores

With a history dating back to 1902, Sycamores has long been a cornerstone of support for youth in the Altadena region. As the fire encroached on their Short Term Residential Therapeutic Program, Sycamores’ social workers safely evacuated all youth to an alternative site, where they continued providing services for 20 days.

Additionally, Sycamores’ staff went above and beyond by helping displaced families navigate complex paperwork to access resources and secure temporary housing.

Bourne Family Services

Founded in 1999, Bourne Family Services provides residential care and mental health support to at-risk youth. The Eaton Fire destroyed their Altadena site, displacing five teenage girls who lost all of their belongings. Despite this devastation, staff remained committed to their mission, securing temporary housing and raising funds to replace the girls’ personal items.

“Bourne has an amazing team of dedicated professionals who provide round-the-clock care for at-risk youth,” said Timothy Tucker, Chief Executive Officer of Bourne Family Services. “Even as they faced their own losses, their unwavering commitment to the young people we serve never faltered. The recognition we’ve received today is deeply humbling.”

L.A. County’s Social Workers

Los Angeles County employs thousands of social workers across multiple departments, each playing a vital role in delivering essential services to residents. These professionals serve in a variety of capacities, including:

• Child Welfare Social Workers – Investigating child abuse and neglect, ensuring children’s safety, and connecting families to support services.
• Adult Protective Services Social Workers – Assisting seniors and adults with disabilities to maintain independence and safety.
• Mental Health Social Workers – Providing crisis intervention, counseling, and behavioral health support.
• Healthcare Social Workers – Helping patients navigate complex medical systems and access essential healthcare services.

“Social workers are the backbone of our communities, providing critical support that empowers individuals and families,” said Supervisor Barger. “From child welfare to mental health services, their tireless dedication ensures that no one is left behind. I deeply appreciate their service and commitment to strengthening our communities.”

The Board of Supervisors’ designation of March 2025 as National Social Work Month in Los Angeles County recognizes the invaluable contributions of social workers across numerous County departments, including Aging and Disabilities, Auditor-Controller, Children and Family Services, District Attorney’s Office, Health Services, Mental Health, Public Health, Public Social Services, and more. Their work transforms lives, promotes justice, and ensures equitable access to essential services.