In June 1925 , after confirming reports of an earthquake in Santa Barbara , McPherson immediately left the parsonage and interrupted a broadcast at a nearby radio station . She took over the microphone from the startled singer and requested food , blankets , clothing , or whatever listeners could give for emergency supplies to assist nearby Santa Barbara . As the Red Cross met to discuss and organize aid , McPherson 's second convoy had already arrived at the troubled city . In 1928 , after a dam failed and the ensuing flood left up to 600 dead in its wake , McPherson 's church led the relief effort . Later , in 1933 , an earthquake struck and devastated Long Beach . McPherson quickly arranged for volunteers to be on the scene with blankets , coffee , and doughnuts
earthquake in Santa Barbara
1925 Santa Barbara earthquake
Aimee Semple McPherson