On Thursday, Jan. 16, the forces of music and philanthropy combine for SOST’s LA Wildfire Relief Benefit Night, an evening dedicated to embracing community and resurgence amid the devastating fires corrupting Los Angeles County.
Nestled in the heart of D.C.’s Shaw neighborhood, SOST is home to an immersive cultural integration of music, dining, and community that celebrates the Black diaspora and provides refuge for collaboration — an ideal destination to combat the tragedies seen in California. Among the areas affected include Altadena, a historic Black community that has seen over 1,000 structures destroyed, at least five residents killed and thousands displaced by the Eaton Fire.
“As a Black-owned business, we are committed to uplifting underserved communities, especially during crises that exacerbate inequalities and leave vulnerable populations disproportionately affected,” said Ethiopian-Eritrean entrepreneur Mimi Abebe, co-founder of SOST. “Giving back is not just an act of kindness—it’s an extension of our mission to build bridges, inspire hope, and advocate for equity.”
The collaborative efforts of local contributors showcase the principle of SOST’s community-driven landscape: showing up in times of need.
From 7 p.m. to 10 p.m., attendees can enjoy the sounds of Washingtonian musicians Mathias and Pedro Night, and engage in a multisensory experience featuring a hybrid cafe/wine bar, a restaurant with a rooftop lounge, and a secret subterranean space for auditory discovery.
Event sponsors include: Mary’s Stay (hotel and lodging), Solo Investment Group (real estate developer), and 3708 Spirits, who will donate 100% of the proceeds from all drinks sold to support relief efforts for the LA wildfires.
Further, a portion of bar proceeds will go directly to impacted families.
“We’ve been humbled by the outpouring of support from professionals eager to collaborate, proving what’s possible when a community unites,” Abebe told The Informer. “Together, we can inspire hope and rebuild lives.”