Several relief efforts have begun to assist people who suffered loss in the Nov. 13-17 fires that swept Southern California. Among them:

---St. Didacus Church, Sylmar: The parish will open an assistance center Nov. 21, providing food, clothing and essentials for two weeks from 9 a.m.-noon and 5-8 p.m. The parish is collecting financial donations through its Christian Service Fund which will be distributed to fire victims. Donors will receive a tax deduction receipt from the parish. Gift cards, he noted, are also appreciated.

The Sylmar Park and Recreation Center, located behind the parish at 13109 Borden Ave., will be distributing clothing and essentials until the evening of Nov. 21. from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Assistance information is available at the parish center, (818) 367-6181 or by calling 211.

---Bishop Alemany High School, Mission Hills: The school is collecting donations for two school families who lost their homes. Donors may call the school at (818) 365-3925. Catholic Charities, San Fernando Region, is also soliciting donations. For information, call (818) 883-6015.

---Catholic Charities, Los Angeles: Donations to assist the victims of the recent wild fires in Los Angeles, Santa Barbara and Ventura Counties will be used to assist individuals and families with housing, food, clothing, financial assistance and counseling. Call Catholic Charities at (213) 251-3494, or mail donations to Catholic Charities of Los Angeles, Resource Development Department, 1531 James M. Wood Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90015-0095. Or donate online through Catholic Charities' Website: CatholicCharitiesLA.org.

---Catholic Charities, Orange: Plans to offer assistance were being coordinated this week. Contact: (714) 347-9600; write to Catholic Charities of Orange County, 1800 E. McFadden Ave., Santa Ana, CA 92705; or visit www.ccoc.org.