LOS ANGELES – Actor and comedian Steve Carell is making sure high school seniors affected by the devastating Los Angeles wildfires don’t miss out on a key milestone—prom night.
In a heartwarming announcement Tuesday, Carell revealed in an Instagram video that he is teaming up with Alice’s Kids, a nonprofit that provides financial assistance to children in need. Together, they are covering prom costs for seniors at six high schools in Pasadena.
“If you have already paid for your prom tickets, they will reimburse you. It’s a pretty good deal,” Carell said in his video.
Wildfires Devastate Southern California Communities
The Los Angeles wildfires have wreaked havoc across the region, destroying more than 16,000 homes, businesses, and structures. At least 29 people lost their lives in the Pacific Palisades and Altadena areas north of Pasadena. Several schools were severely damaged or completely destroyed, leaving students and families struggling to recover.
One of the recipient schools, Aveson Charter School, suffered significant damage, with its kindergarten through 5th-grade campus burned down and its middle and high school buildings rendered unusable.
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Alice’s Kids Donates $175,000 for Prom Costs
To make prom night possible for these students, Alice’s Kids is donating approximately $175,000, covering prom tickets for over 800 high school seniors. Tickets typically cost between $100 and $150 each, making this a significant relief for families impacted by the disaster.
“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.
“Hopefully, this allows the students to unwind and have some fun after a devastating year.”
Students React to the Surprise Steve Carell Announcement
During a school assembly at John Muir High School, one of the schools receiving the donation, students erupted in cheers and applause as Carell’s video message was played.
The generous gesture comes after Carell’s recent participation in “Skate for LA Strong,” a celebrity hockey tournament held to raise money for wildfire relief.
Carell’s Message to Students
As he wrapped up his announcement, Carell left students with a simple but memorable message:
“Have fun, enjoy the prom. And remember, this is Steve Carell.”
