In California, deadly wildfires have swept through the state leading to the loss of many homes, animals, and lives. Looters are also known to have taken advantage of these situations and steal more from what was already lost. Luckily those housing the wildfire victims have been protected. The California governor has banned all evictions of tenants that are hosting wildfire victims. Many evacuation orders are still in place and keeping people from going back to their homes, but little by little they are opening up. Plans for rebuilding are set to be created next week. Many people are still suffering. Being all the way across the country can make us feel distant from their troubles. As people in a more fortunate situation it is our responsibility to bridge that gap.
One of the most powerful tools you can wield is knowledge. It may seem insignificant for someone in South Carolina to learn how to deal with a fire emergency when the disaster is so far away, but having proper safety techniques become common knowledge can save many lives. The most important thing is to check your fire alarms every other month. Making sure they have batteries can ensure you are alerted quickly to any dangers in your home. Make a fire escape plan. Knowing where you are going to go from where you are in your house is pertinent. Your timeframe may be limited so do not leave any decisions for the last minute. If someone has been burned then remove the victim from whatever caused the burn, cool the area, and remove any clothing or jewelry from the injury to reduce friction and pressure. If the injury is moderate take the victim to an emergency room. If the injury is severe call 911.
If you can donate anything whether it be supplies, time, or your voice, please do. These people deserve our help. The best donations will always be cash as it allows the organizations to adapt quickly to what is needed. It also allows your money to go further as they can buy in bulk with discounts and support the local economy. If you are lost or do not know where to look to help, there are some key places you can consider:
Red Cross
A non-profit organization dedicated to helping people in emergency situations. They provide safety tips, relief, and shelters for those affected by the fires. You can donate money or volunteer at redcross.com.
World Central Kitchen
The World Central Kitchen is a non-profit that donates food to areas afflicted with disaster. They currently have 24 kitchens throughout California to help those affected by the wildfires. You can donate at https://donate.wck.org/give.
California Fire Foundation Wildfire & Disaster Relief Fund
Another non-profit specifically dedicated to helping in California they provide relief to not only residents but the firefighters themselves. They also help to rebuild communities in California. You can donate at https://cpf.salsalabs.org/cff-donation/index.html
CAL FIRE Benevolent Foundation
A Californian non-profit organization whose mission it is to help firefighters and their families in California. They also provide support to burn victims and provide information on fire safety. You can donate at https://calfire.foundation/donations/.
Wildfire Recovery Fund
Part of the California Community Foundation, the Wildfire Recovery Fund allocates funds to provide immediate relief and long term rebuilding solutions. Since 2003, the fund has donated over $30 million to those in need. Over $3 million has currently been raised for the recent fires. You can donate at https://www.pledge.to/ccfwildfirerelieffund.
Global Empowerment Mission
With many missions across the world, the Global Empowerment Mission hopes to provide help as efficiently as possible. A proven 97% of every dollar donated goes to their missions. Their current project in California has so far raised $500,000 for residents to spend on daily necessities and $10 million for long-term recovery. You can donate at https://www.globalempowermentmission.org/donate/mission/la-county-wildfires/.
Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation
The Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation are dedicated to helping provide funds and supplies to the LA Fire Department. Only 3% of firefighter funds go to tools and equipment, so they hope to remedy that. You can donate at https://supportlafd.kindful.com/.
Baby2Baby
Baby2Baby focuses on bringing care and supplies to children living in poverty or crises. Their current work in California continues this goal by bringing aid to children and essential items to evacuation centers and families. You can donate at https://donate.baby2baby.org/give/648067/#!/donation/.
Mercy Chefs
Mercy Chefs respond to natural disasters and food insecurity with self-sustaining mobile kitchens that can purify drinking water and work in places without electricity. Their current work in California is providing hot meals to families and those in need. You can donate at https://mercychefs.com/donate-california-wildfires.
Pasadena Humane
If you are looking to help animals and pet owners during the wildfires you can donate to Pasadena Humane. They help find and take care of lost pets and reunite them with their owners. You can donate at https://give.pasadenahumane.org/give/264243/#!/donation/.
