DIY VIRAL
Tens of thousands of people, including A-list celebrities, have evacuated following the ongoing fires in Los Angeles, leaving many wondering how to help those in need.
After a windstorm sparked bushfires on the morning of Tuesday, January 7, local residents were were forced to leave their homes and companies behind as widespread damage impacted the Los Angeles community.
“This is the time to reach out to anyone who lives in Los Angeles who you think might be in some kind of traumatic shock and grief over the loss of their homes and the devastation of their neighborhoods and communities, and offer your hand, your home, and your resources,” Jamie Lee Curtis wrote through Instagram on Thursday, Jan. 9, alongside aerial images of the damage in the area. “We will have to come together like we probably never have before in the City of Angels and help each other. AND WE WILL!”
Oscar winner donated $1 million relief fund, but even those who can't afford to donate a blockbuster salary can help.
While GoFundMe has created a centralized hub for all fundraising pages for those affected by the fire, other organizations including The Salvation Army have sprung into action to provide assistance.
Scroll down for resources on how to help those affected by the fires:
Los Angeles has had some scary natural weather and its star community has been hit hard. Extreme wind storms from Santa Ana gusts sparked fast-burning brush fires around 10 a.m. Tuesday, Jan. 7, and drivers along Sunset Boulevard and Palisades Drive abandoned their cars to seek safety, according to (…)
How to help people get food and water
World Central Kitchen, a non-profit organization, provides food and water to both residents and first responders. “Our teams have mobilized across the region to provide immediate assistance in the form of sandwiches and water as we identify all needs,” the organization said in a statement. notification.
How to help provide shelter
Katie Couric and Lea Michele is one of the many celebrities who noted that the American Red Cross of Greater Los Angeles is providing emergency shelter, food, water, health and spiritual services to victims. The shelter is located at the Westwood Recreation Center in Los Angeles.
“Wildfires can spread quickly and it is important to prepare now and prepare your car; don't wait until there is enough time to grab your essentials,” the organization said notification.
The organization accepts donations online by calling (800) 733-2767 or texting REDCROSS to 90999.
How to help with medical care
Direct Relief contacts local health care providers and emergency management teams.
“The organization is currently deploying medical assistance, including emergency medical supplies to first responders and displaced residents, as well as respiratory protective equipment, including N95 respirators, to mitigate health risks from smoke exposure,” the organization wrote. notification.
As the wildfires continue to spread through the Los Angeles area, several celebrities are taking to social media to share how they've been affected. “Evacuated and safe with children, dog and cats. Praying and thanking the first responders,” Mandy Moore wrote in a Wednesday, Jan. 8, Instagram Story. In the next message she (…)
How to help firefighters
Camille Moron urged Instagram followers to “help our LAFD firefighters” with LA Fire Department Foundation's Wildfire Emergency Fund. The organization supports local firefighters to fund emergency fire shelters, hydration backpacks and wild brush gear.
The California Fire Foundation also provides support to surviving firefighters and their families by commemorating fallen firefighters, offering aid to fire victims and scholarships to children of fallen firefighters.
The CAL FIRE Benevolent Fund also offers financial assistance to firefighters and their families and supports burn victims and their families.
How to help animals
Sophia Bush and Kylie Jenner the two shared a post highlighting a number of animal shelters, including the Pasadena Humane Society, which helps ensure the removal of pets from wildfire areas and provides emergency services.
“If you have an evacuation order, please take your pets with you. Get ready now. Pack a bag with pet food (at least five days worth), water, dishes, toys, and any medications. Make sure your pet has a collar with a current ID tag in case they get lost,” they said a notification.
The organization will have animal control staff at the Pasadena Convention Center to assist with the animals. If assistance is needed, residents can call the animal control dispatcher at 626-792-7151 ext. 970.
American Red Cross of Greater Los Angeles shelters pets at Pierce College in Woodland Hills. Jessica Alba shared via Instagram that Dog rescue club also looking for volunteers to temporarily foster dogs displaced by fire.
Whether it's Grammy winner Taylor Swift or star NFL quarterback Patrick Mahomes, pop culture's biggest names have made the world a better place. It's not uncommon for celebrities to donate to charities — 34-year-old Swift has contributed millions to causes close to her heart during her decades-long career (…)
How to help with important things
Leisure brand Set Active is accepting clothing donations for those affected by the fire Instagram direct message. Mandy Patinkin and Jesse Williams shared Mutual aid in LA's information indicating that the Anderson Munger Family YMCA and the Koreatown YMCA Community Wellness Center are also accepting donations, including unopened food, clothing, blankets, emergency supplies and pet food.
Donations can be dropped off at the Anderson Munger Family YMCA, 4301 W. 3rd St. in Los Angeles and the Koreatown YMCA, 433 S. Vermont Ave. in Los Angeles.
Hailey Bieber shared via Instagram Baby2Baby is also providing baby items to families affected by the fire by accepting online donations for its disaster relief and response program.
Check LAFD website on local wildfires and click here for resources on how to help victims.
DIY VIRAL
