URGENT UPDATE: A mother and son duo is taking action to heal the fire-ravaged landscapes of Pacific Palisades and Altadena through their innovative Seed Bomb Project. Dana Goodyear and her 14-year-old son Rummy are on a mission to blanket these devastated areas with wildflowers, aiming to distribute 10,000 seed bombs to support their community’s recovery.
The Goodyears, who lost their home in the January fires that destroyed over 11,000 homes, are inviting residents to join them for a seed bomb giveaway on December 6 from 1 to 4 p.m. at the corner of Hartzell and Carey streets. They plan to distribute an additional 500 seed bombs, following a previous giveaway of the same amount on November 30. This community initiative is not just about beautifying the neighborhood; it’s about fostering hope and recovery amidst the devastation.
“I think it’s really helped me,” Rummy stated, reflecting on how the project has shifted his perspective on their lost home. The Seed Bomb Project, inspired by the concept of “fire-following” wildflowers, utilizes a blend of native seeds, clay, and compost to create compact seed bombs that can be easily tossed onto barren soil. This method not only aids in reestablishing plant life but also provides a therapeutic outlet for Rummy and other local youth.
The project has gained traction, with support from local schools and community members. Initially started as a school service learning project, it expanded after Rummy’s science teacher encouraged him to engage his classmates. The enthusiasm has sparked a movement, with volunteers joining their efforts to distribute seed bombs throughout Altadena.
However, funding remains a challenge. The Goodyears have spent approximately $10,000 of their own money on the project, while raising an additional $10,000 through grants and pledges. They are launching a new fundraising campaign on Giving Tuesday to raise an ambitious $50,000, aimed at producing thousands more seed bombs to aid in the healing of their community.
The Seed Bomb Project has inspired similar initiatives in the area. René Amy, an Altadena activist, is spearheading the Great Altadena Poppy Project, with a goal of sowing 100 million California poppy seeds across fire-damaged lots. This project, supported by local organizations, aims to bring vibrancy back to the community while providing a sense of hope for residents affected by the fires.
As the Goodyears continue their mission, they are not just restoring flora but also cultivating a sense of belonging and purpose for those who have faced unimaginable loss. Their work exemplifies the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity, transforming barren landscapes into blooming fields of hope.
Stay tuned as this story develops and consider supporting local initiatives aimed at healing and revitalizing communities impacted by natural disasters. The efforts of individuals like Dana and Rummy Goodyear remind us that even in the darkest times, there is a path toward recovery, one seed bomb at a time.
