Former Nickelodeon Child Star Giving Away Free Housing To L.A. Fire Evacuees
By Kelly Coffey-Behrens on January 29, 2025 at 10:15 AM EST
Legendary actress and former child star Angelique Bates is stepping up in a major way to support those affected by the devastating Los Angeles fires.
The Haitian-American actress, best known for being an original cast member of Nickelodeon's iconic 90s sketch comedy show "All That," has been working tirelessly on the ground to assist displaced residents.
In partnership with celebrity real estate agent Jimmy Vibert of BVO Luxury - Keller Williams Beverly Hills, Angelique Bates has been offering free housing to individuals and families who have lost their homes in the ongoing fires.
Nickelodeon Alum Angelique Bates Provides Free Housing For Los Angeles Fire Evacuees
A Los Angeles native, Bates has been deeply involved in relief efforts, organizing multiple donation drives, volunteering, and collaborating with organizations, politicians, and brands to make a tangible impact. She has partnered with Lucid Motors Beverly Hills, Ozzy’s Apizza, ZA Lawyers, and Dena Relief, among others, to help bring aid to those in need.
“I have been doing humanitarian and philanthropy work since I was a youth. But after experiencing homelessness firsthand with only a handful of help, it was even easier for me to relate to and understand the critical need for immediate housing for those affected by the recent devastating LA fires," Bates shared in a statement with The Blast.
The initiative is part of her larger effort to provide relief to affected communities since the wildfires began on January 7, 2025.
Angelique Bates Prioritizes Mental Health Support Alongside Housing Relief
In addition to providing essential resources and housing, Angelique Bates recognizes the profound impact these devastating fires have on mental health, ensuring that emotional well-being is also a priority in her relief efforts.
"Also, as a mental health advocate, I know an unhealthy amount of people’s mental health has been compromised in a short time frame, and a lot of people are in survival mode and disbelief," the former Nickelodeon star added. "But soon the next phase of that is…depression and helplessness. That’s why when real estate agent Jimmy Vibert told me about what he and his colleagues at BVO Luxury/ Keller Hellen Beverly Hills were doing, I immediately wanted to be on board and help take a major load off of these families' backs that want the assistance before it gets to the next phase."
"Each family's case is different, but just knowing that you have a roof over your head for at least three months to a year is a major stress reliever," Bates concluded.
Angelique Bates and Jimmy Vibert Host Donation Drive and Extend Free Housing For Los Angeles Fire Victims
This past weekend, Bates and Vibert organized a donation drive, where they collected essential new items for fire victims while also placing families in housing. The initiative has been a lifeline for those affected, offering not just immediate necessities, but also a safe place to stay during this difficult time.
Their commitment doesn’t stop there. Bates and Vibert have pledged to continue providing free housing through the remainder of January and all of February, ensuring long-term support for families in need.
Palisades Fire Leaves Devastation In Its Wake As Uninsured Homeowners Face Total Loss
As the Palisades Fire continues to leave a trail of destruction across Southern California, thousands of homeowners are facing the grim reality of losing everything without financial protection.
According to CBS, 12% of American homeowners do not have home insurance, and with rising premiums, many opted to drop their coverage in recent years. For those who took the risk, the wildfire resulted in a catastrophic and uninsured loss.
Fire officials reported Monday evening that the Palisades Fire is now 95% contained, after burning through more than 23,400 acres. While containment efforts have made significant progress, the damage left behind is staggering:
- Structures destroyed: 6,837 confirmed
- Structures damaged: 1,017 confirmed
- Lives lost: 12 confirmed fatalities
The fire has displaced thousands of residents, many of whom lack home insurance and now have no financial recourse to rebuild.
A Long Road To Recovery
The crisis has exacerbated California’s housing emergency, leaving families scrambling for temporary shelter and relief assistance.
With thousands of homes lost and entire communities devastated, the road to recovery will be long and costly, especially for those without insurance. Relief efforts are underway, with various organizations stepping in to provide emergency aid, but for many, the financial and emotional toll of the fire remains overwhelming.
