Key Takeaways:

• Steve Carell announces partnership with Alice's Kids to fund prom tickets for over 800 students.
• The initiative comes as students recover from devastating wildfires in Southern California.
• Alice's Kids will cover approximately $175,000 in prom ticket costs for six Pasadena high schools.

In a heartwarming gesture for high school students impacted by recent wildfires, Steve Carell has announced that the charity Alice's Kids will fund prom tickets for seniors at six Pasadena high schools. The announcement was made via an Instagram video where Carell reassured students that all prom ticket costs would be covered, totaling approximately $175,000.

The donation will benefit students from Marshall Fundamental Secondary School, Aveson Charter School, and Blair, Rose City, Pasadena, and John Muir high schools, with each prom ticket ranging from $50 to $200. Carell emphasized, “If you have already paid for your prom tickets, they will reimburse you for your prom tickets. It’s a pretty good deal,” significantly lightening the financial burden that families have faced due to the devastation from the Eaton fire that struck earlier this year.

The wildfires left a profound impact on the area, destroying nearly 9,000 homes and leading to the loss of 17 lives. With five educational sites within the Pasadena Unified School District damaged or destroyed, this initiative provides solace and support to over 800 students who have already faced significant struggles this year. Ron Fitzsimmons, executive director of Alice’s Kids, highlighted the importance of this contribution, stating, “Knowing the financial pressure families are feeling, we wanted to at least erase the worry of paying for prom tickets.”

Superintendent Elizabeth Blanco of the Pasadena Unified School District expressed gratitude for the support from Carell and Alice’s Kids, noting that it allows families to focus on healing while still experiencing celebratory milestones like prom. “It represents hope, resilience, and the support of a wider community that cares about the children and families,” she said.

As students approach their proms amidst the long recovery process, Carell concluded his video message with words of encouragement: “Enjoy the prom. And remember, this is Steve Carell. Take it easy, guys.” This gesture reflects the continued support from many in the entertainment community for Southern California amidst its challenges.

For more information, visit SFGATE.