Helping Hands: Organizations Mobilize to Assist Displaced Residents
Donation Opportunities
As the Palisades fire, Eaton fire, and Hurst fire continue to burn through Los Angeles County, local organizations are rallying to support displaced residents. With thousands of residents forced to evacuate, organizations such as the American Red Cross and Salvation Army are accepting online cash or check donations. Cash donations are often more helpful as they can avoid storage issues and allow for quicker responses to immediate needs.
Organizations Accepting Donations
California Fire Foundation
The foundation is taking donations online at cpf.salsalabs.org to provide aid and resources for both fire crews and residents.
The American Red Cross
The American Red Cross is accepting donations online at redcross.org/donate/donation.html/. The organization plays a role in disaster recovery by providing emergency shelters, meals, medical care, and recovery planning services.
Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation
The Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation is the official nonprofit of the Los Angeles City Fire Department. The organization supports over 3,000 local firefighters and paramedics by providing equipment and tools to help them fight wildfires effectively. Donations to the foundation can be made online at supportlafd.org/donate/.
Teladoc
The virtual medical service Teledoc is providing free 24/7 virtual medical care from licensed healthcare professionals for any non-emergency illness by calling Teladoc Health directly at 855-225-5032. Additionally, those who may need help with authorization for non-narcotic drugs can also get assistance. The free services are for first responders, Southern California residents, and anyone else who may be affected by the fires.
The Salvation Army
Donations are being accepted online at socal.salvationarmy.org/southern-california/california-wildfires/ for wildfire relief efforts in Southern California. The Salvation Army has trained staff that is mobilizing to provide food, water, shelter, and other needed resources.
California Community Foundation
The California Community Foundation is accepting donations online at calfund.org/funds/wildfire-recovery-fund/ toward its Wildfire Recovery Fund to aid those affected by the fires. The nonprofit has provided more than $32 million in relief to victims of wildfire since 2003, according to the foundation’s website.
Planet Fitness
The gym chain is providing access to showers and its facilities at no cost to firefighters and residents displaced by fires. A gym membership is not required to access the facilities participating. For information and hours of operation, see planetfitness.com/gyms.
Friends in Deed
Friends in Deed is accepting online donations at friendsindeedpas.org/donate-to-friends-in-deed/ to support its efforts to help homeless and at-risk neighbors. This organization has set up an adults-only shelter at Trinity Lutheran Church in Pasadena, open Wednesday, January 8, through Friday, January 10, to provide aid and support to residents affected by the fires.
LA Dream Center
The Los Angeles-based community organization is serving as an evacuation center for residents forced to leave their homes due to the fires. The Dream Center is accepting credit- and debit-card donations in any amount online at dreamcenter.org. In a January 7 Instagram post, the center said it has an ample supply of food, clothing, and toiletries for those it expects to assist.
Conclusion
As the fires continue to burn, it is essential to support the organizations working tirelessly to provide aid and resources to displaced residents. Whether it’s a cash donation, supply donation, or volunteering your time, every effort counts in helping those affected by the fires.
FAQs
Q: What are the most helpful donations to make during a wildfire disaster?
A: Cash donations are often more helpful as they can avoid storage issues and allow for quicker responses to immediate needs.
Q: How can I volunteer to help with wildfire relief efforts?
A: Contact local organizations such as the American Red Cross, Salvation Army, or LA Dream Center to inquire about volunteer opportunities.
Q: What services are being provided to first responders and affected residents?
A: Organizations such as Teladoc are providing free 24/7 virtual medical care, while others are offering food, water, shelter, and other needed resources.
