In a heartwarming gesture, Alice’s Kids, a Virginia-based non-profit organization, has announced it will cover the cost of senior prom tickets for students at six high schools in Altadena, California, that were impacted by the recent Eaton Fire. The announcement was made by actor Steve Carell via a video message, bringing a wave of relief and joy to the community.
The Eaton Fire, which ravaged the Altadena and Pasadena areas, destroyed over 9,400 structures and displaced 10,000 families. Despite the devastation, the six high schools—Marshall Fundamental Secondary School, Aveson Charter, John Muir, Blair, Rose City, and Pasadena High Schools—survived and are determined to move forward with their proms.
“Going to prom should be a celebration, and we wanted to help make the big night just a little easier for seniors whose lives have been turned upside down by the wildfires,” said Ron Fitzsimmons, Executive Director of Alice’s Kids. The charity will pay approximately $175,000 to ensure that more than 800 students can attend their prom without financial burden.
The initiative was inspired by the financial pressures faced by families in the aftermath of the fires. “Knowing the financial pressure families are feeling, we wanted to at least erase the worry of paying for prom tickets,” Fitzsimmons added.
The announcement was met with overwhelming gratitude from the school communities. Lori Touloumian, principal of Marshall Fundamental Secondary School, expressed her appreciation, saying, “Marshall is so incredibly grateful…so many of our students endured tragedy and loss due to the Eaton Fires, and this wonderful gesture will lift our students’ spirits with a spark of much-needed joy!”
Byron Flitsch, Director of Curriculum at Aveson Charter, echoed this sentiment, stating, “This is amazing news! We are beyond grateful! What a kind gesture for our students…and to have Steve Carell share the news is beyond epic!”
Steve Carell, known for his roles in “The Office” and “Despicable Me,” has been a longtime supporter of Alice’s Kids. In his video message, he said, “Attention, all seniors. This is Steve Carell with a very special announcement. Alice’s Kids will be paying for all of your prom tickets, and if you have already paid for your prom tickets, they will reimburse you. Have fun. Enjoy the prom, and remember, this is Steve Carell. Take it easy, guys.”
Alice’s Kids is a national charity that provides anonymous financial assistance to children in need. The organization aims to help children feel normal and included by covering costs for items and experiences that their families might not be able to afford.
For more information about Alice’s Kids and their initiatives, visit www.aliceskids.org.