As devastating wildfires continue to ravage Los Angeles, Americans are doing their part. And there are many ways to provide support at this critical moment.
Very quickly, local and national charities and various relief funds drew attention to this tragedy and worked around the clock to provide first responders and the devastated victims with everything they needed to survive the natural disaster. We are working on this system.
And now, more than ever, help is needed, Liz Lin, president of the Los Angeles Fire Foundation, told the Post.
“It's the third day since the fire started and everyone is starting to get tired,” Lin said.
“We are playing the long game,” she added. LAFD and other response units likely have at least another month's worth of work ahead of them, he said.
Lin's organization is currently raising emergency funds for supplies most needed by City of Angels firefighters as they continue their tough battle against the devastating fires.
At the moment, LAFDF is using donations to acquire more fire shelters, Lin explained. This is a low-to-the-ground aluminum tent-like cover that firefighters can crawl into for safety in dire situations.
The money sent will also help aid organizations buy hand tools such as rakes and shovels for forest fires. Lin said hydration backpacks for firefighters are also needed.
The foundation is just one part of a vast network of groups raising money for goods and services, so much so that it can be disorienting for those trying to help.
That's why, said Laurie Styron, CEO and Executive Director of CharityWatch. said CNBCIt's important that Americans “don't donate impulsively.”
“Take the time to ensure that the charity is not only legitimate and efficient, but also actively providing assistance on the ground.”
She also warned against putting money into crowdfunding campaigns.
“Charities have the ability to distribute aid equitably to all who need it.”
And Lin emphasized that there are ways to show support beyond financial considerations. Anyone can immediately boost the morale of first responders by publicly showing their support.
“Please show your love and unity of spirit with them on social media,” she urged.
“When men and women take off their clothes” [their shifts]I tell them to scroll through their Instagram and Facebook posts and see all the love they're receiving,” she said.
Where you can donate to Los Angeles Fire Aid
Los Angeles Fire Foundation
Respond in real time to the needs and equipment firefighters need.
california community foundation
Manage short- and long-term recovery for people displaced and affected by wildfires.
California Fire Foundation
We will work with local fire departments and organizations to provide financial relief to affected residents.
https://www.cafirefoundation.org/
Mutual Aid LA
A network highlighting where and how people can donate needed supplies. It also serves as a forum where those affected can list what they need most.
Los Angeles Regional Food Bank
We accept both food donations and volunteers at multiple locations.
emergency network LA
Provide general assistance to those in need of relief.
LA Works
Focus on mobilizing volunteers to disaster-stricken areas.
pasadena humanitarian
We work with animal control authorities to evacuate animals and work with shelters to adopt animals from evacuated families. By Wednesday, they had helped adopt more than 300 animals.
https://give.pasadenahumane.org/
California Federation Community Foundation
A coalition of California nonprofit organizations that coordinates relief efforts, including rebuilding homes and addressing the mental health effects of disasters.
California Fire Charitable Foundation
Provides funds for injured firefighters and their families.
Pasadena Community Foundation
We have established the Eaton Canyon Fire Relief and Recovery Fund and are working with other local organizations to provide assistance.
entertainment industry foundation
Hollywood is helping support firefighters and other first responders.
LA Firefighters Relief Association
Provide financial and emotional support to firefighters' families.
United Way of Ventura County
We support residents' short- and long-term peace of mind.
