Park fire survivors find solace in music at benefit concert in Chico

CHICO, California — On Saturday, a benefit concert for the survivors of the Park Fire took place at the City Plaza in Chico.

We wanted to not only raise money, but also create a place where people can unwind and enjoy music, an environment where we can just have fun. It’s only been three weeks and we’re still feeling it, but (I’m) glad we can do this,” explained Kevin Killion, one of the main organizers of the Roots of Resilience benefit concert.

Gary Smith and Gypsy Andrews of Kai Music and Arts, along with Artistic Mobilization Platform, Jacob Koertge of Becky Williams and Killion, organized “Roots of Resilience,” an impressive benefit concert to raise funds for the survivors of the Park Fire in Cohasset.

The event featured live performances from 10 local bands. In addition to the music, there were stalls, food and activities for children, creating a supportive and comfortable environment for survivors and their supporters.

“It’s important for these kids, for me and for many others to have a good place up here. It’s just sad because a lot of it burned and I didn’t even recognize some places. I had to ask my dad, ‘Where are we?'” said 8-year-old Brady, a Park Fire survivor from Cohasset.

Amidst the crowd, numerous individuals offered essential supplies such as clothing and shoes, even though they themselves were affected by the fire.

“So we lost my house and all of our neighbors lost it, and I’m just glad everyone’s safe. The thought of it all stopping was more heartbreaking than losing it all. The thought of me having to sit there and not being able to help would be really hard for me personally,” said Nicole Regan, vice president of the Cohasset Community Association and Park Fire survivor.

Yahmo Ahqha and other artists are still grappling with the aftermath of losing their homes while bringing the healing power of music to a community hit hard by the fire.

The fact that me and my family are safe is the most important thing. There will always be bouts of depression and that’s normal. You’ve lost everything, I’ve lost things from my childhood and things that can’t be replaced, but we’re lucky to be here. You just have to keep going. Sometimes in life you have to start over and I’m really lucky to have this community and friends to start over with,” Ahqha said.

The organizers of the concert hope to host more fundraisers for their community in the future.