As wildfires continue to ravage the Los Angeles area, one of Los Angeles' professional sports teams is stepping into action to help with relief efforts.
The Los Angeles Chargers announced Wednesday that they will provide $200,000 in targeted funding to the American Red Cross, Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation, Team Rubicon and pet rescue organizations that protect animals displaced by wildfires.
The team is also inviting fans to participate in a “Charge to the Playoffs” event ahead of Saturday's Wild Card Game against the Houston Texans in Houston.
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Los Angeles Chargers owner Dean Spanos watches from the sideline during a game against the Cincinnati Bengals at SoFi Stadium. (Kirby Lee Iman image)
The team's game party on Saturday at the Hermosa Beach pier will also serve as a supply drive, and the Chargers are asking fans to bring supplies to evacuation centers, including El Camino Real High School.
“We are currently dealing with multiple fires across the region and are facing an unprecedented situation that we don't think can get any worse,” Chargers owner Dean Spanos said in a statement. “At the same time, we are seeing local communities at their best.” stated in a statement. “The courage, selflessness, bravery, sacrifice and compassion shown by first responders, good Samaritans, friends, family and neighbors over the past 24 hours has been amazing.
“Our hearts go out to all the people evacuated by these fires, to the firefighters and police officers who are risking their lives to keep us safe, to those working on the front lines, and to all the people who are evacuating from these fires. Our thoughts are with those who have stepped up to support each other during this incredible time of need.”
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The Chargers had scheduled a “Charge to the Playoffs” event in Sherman Oaks on Friday, but fires continue to ravage the area. However, similar events will go ahead as planned, and it is hoped that fans who can donate supplies such as blankets, bottled water, new or used clothing, first aid kits, etc. will join the relief efforts. are.
This team has a history of supporting not only our own community, but those in need. They recently donated 50/50 of their winnings from the team's game against the Tennessee Titans to the American Red Cross Mountain Fire Relief Efforts in Ventura County. The organization has also donated funds to relief efforts such as the Maui fires and Hurricane Harvey.
Los Angeles Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert passes the ball during a game against the New England Patriots at Gillette Stadium. (David Butler II-Imagn Images)
While the Chargers are focused on supporting their community during this time of crisis, they also have to think about their game in Houston in the coming days.
The team may not play at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, Calif., where the air quality index exceeded 280 on Wednesday, but the team has changed its practice schedule to limit players' outdoor time, team officials told ESPN. told.
Meanwhile, the Los Angeles Rams will host the Minnesota Vikings on Monday night at SoFi Stadium. The NFL released a statement saying it was closely monitoring the Los Angeles fires.
Weather conditions do not help firefighters fight fires, as winds are often too strong for aircraft to extinguish fires.
A full view of the Los Angeles Chargers helmet during the Kansas City Chiefs game at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium. (Denny Medley – USA Today Sports)
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The Los Angeles Fire Department has already called in off-duty firefighters, with thousands working day and night to put out the blaze.
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