About Us
Our Mission
Phoenix Emergency Recovery Kits (PERK) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization whose mission is to improve the health and wellbeing of evacuees by delivering emergency kits to wildfire shelters/fire stations. In 2026, PERK expanded its partnership to Penny Lane Centers for kits to be distributed through its Community and Family Resource Center. The kits include hygiene products, food, clothing, and activities to help pass time. PERK is based in Los Angeles, California. PERK was founded in 2021.
Message From Our President
Shaun Malhotra
PERK was founded in 2021 by my older sister, Tara Malhotra, after our family was evacuated multiple times due to California wildfires. The PERK donations of hygiene products, food, clothing, and activities make the evacuation experience more manageable through resources and support. PERK partnered with MySafe:LA to attend Wildfire Safety Fairs and participate in community education alongside the donation of kits to wildfire shelters and evacuees.
​
I took the reins from Tara in 2025 and expanded the organization to be a service club at my high school. With more volunteers, we were able to increase the amount of donations and the bags we could prepare. In 2026, with greater resources, we were fortunate to add a meaningful partnership with Penny Lane Centers located throughout Southern California. We built upon the idea of "rising from the ashes" to impact children, families, and individuals in need. These include programs for mental health services, adoption and foster family support, transitional and permanent housing assistance, and youth development initiatives.
PERK has impacted 2,800+ people so far, and we are committed to helping evacuees and underserved communities for years to come.
​