The most destructive fire in Los Angeles history has forced over a hundred thousand residents to evacuate their homes.
The wildfire that has been ravaging Los Angeles since January 7 was first spotted at around 10 a.m. local time. From the mountains, the flames spread to Los Angeles’ Pacific Palisades neighborhood.
Now there have been five active fires, fueled by powerful winds, which have burnt nearly 28,000 acres of land combined. For now, the Hurst fire and the Lidia fire have been partially contained. The death toll of five is also expected to rise, according to CNN.
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The Guardian reported that around 130,000 people from the Pacific Coast to inland Pasadena have been told to evacuate. The fires have destroyed almost 2,000 homes and buildings as of January 9, still in the early morning.
On the news, we have seen firefighters saving residents and their irreplaceable belongings, staff evacuating nursing homes, news reporters helping fleeing victims of the fires, and more acts of service and bravery.
While firefighters, volunteers, and everyday heroes have been up for days trying to put a stop to the flames and saving lives, here is how we can help from afar.
American Red Cross
The American Red Cross of Greater Los Angeles is currently providing shelter to victims of the wildfire, including their family pets, as well as food, water, and health and emotional support services.
Their emergency shelter is located at Westwood Recreation Center while larger animals and livestock are welcome at Pierce College. You can learn more on how to donate or volunteer here.
California Fire Foundation
Donations to the California Fire Foundation helps provide aid to the firefighters in the frontlines as well as their families.
According to the foundation, every donation also helps them “commemorate fallen heroes, offer scholarships to children of fallen firefighters, provide aid to victims of fire or other natural disaster, and provide fire safety resources to underserved communities across California.” Visit the website to find out how to make a donation or a tax deductible gift to the foundation.
The Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation
The Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation is also calling for donations to help equip their firefighters with tools and supplies to contain the flames.
The funds will go to acquiring needed gear such as emergency personal fire shelters, hydration backpacks, and wildland brush tools. Read more on how you can offer support through the foundation here.
California Community Foundation
The California Community Foundation’s Wildfire Recovery Fund is dedicated to helping the marginalized communities who have been hit the hardest by the wildfires.
Donations help provide shelter, food, cash, and other basic needs while also supporting both mid-term to long-term recovery efforts for those affected by California wildfires. The foundation has raised over $570,000 so far, according to its website. If you’re interested to help, pledges are accepted on the website.
Pasadena Humane Society
Leaving no one behind, not even animals, the Pasadena Humane Society is currently accepting donations to help support pet evacuations across Los Angeles.
According to the organization, staff and volunteers have taken in over 300 animals as of January 8. Lately, many animals have been coming in with burns and other injuries. Aside from monetary donations, which is their biggest need, foster volunteers are also welcome. You can help animals in need by contacting Pasadena Humane Society through this website.
World Central Kitchen
Chef José Andrés’ World Central Kitchen has mobilized in Southern California to support first responders and families impacted by wildfires.
The WCK’s team is now focusing on immediate relief in the form of sandwiches and water. “Several WCK Chef Corps members are on standby, ready to provide comforting meals,” their latest update reads. Learn how you can support World Central Kitchen’s efforts by visiting their website.
Banner image of the Hurst fire by P. Rivas via Wikimedia Commons.
