Lake Elsinore’s Mountainside Ministries Rebuilding Following Losses In Falls Fire

When the Falls Fire came blazing down the hill toward Lake Elsinore Monday, Mountainside Ministries Christian Church on Ortega Highway was right in its path.

People and animals at the property escaped injury but there was damage. Outbuildings were destroyed on the 60-acre property located at 30515 Ortega Highway, including a covered shed area containing baled hay and several pieces of farm equipment.

Lara Silla runs the nonprofit youth horse program at Mountainside.  

“The schoolhouse building, church building, pool and park were entirely unaffected by the fire,” she said.

Pastor Dave Kincer was at the property clearing brush with his tractor as flames crept closer and closer, Silla explained.

Eventually firefighters told him he had to evacuate.

“They told him he did a great job and his efforts helped save the schoolhouse,” Silla continued.

“All of the vegetation on the property is gone, except one oak tree. Regardless of the fire, we are still planning on holding our Sunday service this week,” she added. 

Mountainside Ministries' horse program was the most affected blaze.

“All of our animals made it out safely, but we did lose our entire year's worth of hay -- about $7,000,” Silla explained.

“Since we rely on the donations of others to keep the horse program operating, when complete strangers like Kevin and Amber Blasic, who are the owners of Brake Masters in Hemet, call me up wanting to donate hay, they deserve some major recognition!” Silla continued.

“Such kindness and generosity goes a long way. These kind people gathered cash donations from family and friends and within hours we had a week's worth of hay delivered to us. Thank you so much Blasic Family!” she added. 

Mountainside Ministries is also thanking firefighters.

"At a date TBD, we plan on hosting an appreciation BBQ and pool party for the firefighters involved with the Falls Fire to thank them for their efforts in saving our buildings and the nearby homes," Silla said.

If people are interested in donating to Mountainside Ministries, visit www.go2mountainside.com for a list of items that were lost in the fire. Mountainside Ministries opened in 2005. The ranch is located less than a mile from Grand Avenue in Lake Elsinore.