Over the past 24 hours, I’ve watched in disbelief as friends in LA shared photos of neighborhood fires, emergency evacuations, and the devastating destruction of many homes. This tragedy feels like nothing we’ve ever seen before. In just a few hours, thousands of people’s lives were turned upside down as they saw everything they owned completely destroyed. Homes, schools, supermarkets and entire neighborhoods were destroyed, families displaced and communities destroyed.
After the evacuation order was announced, tens of thousands of people fled their homes in search of safety. Many people set out on foot, taking their belongings and pets with them, as roads became congested and travel became impossible. The Los Angeles County Fire Chief said they lacked the resources needed to fight the fire. He said 29 departments were “unprepared for this type of widespread disaster.”
Thank you to everyone who checked in on us. The fire is still a few miles south of my house in Malibu, the winds are still strong, and I don’t feel like I’m completely out of the woods yet. But such worries pale in comparison to the helplessness I feel as I watch the devastation from miles away. Many of you feel the same way. All we can do to help right now is to pray for safety, check on our loved ones who have been affected, and donate what we can financially.
In most disaster scenarios, monetary donations are most helpful because they allow organizations to purchase and distribute exactly the supplies they need. If you want to gift physical items, check the official list first to make sure they are what you really need. I took a deep dive into the various organizations that are mobilizing to help first responders and the homeless and wanted to share the list here to make it as easy as possible for you.
If you notice anything else, please send it to me. If you are able, please consider donating to one of the organizations below.
LA firefighters are severely underequipped, and this foundation provides the critical equipment LAFD needs to extinguish fires and save lives.
American Red Cross Los Angeles District
The Red Cross opened emergency centers throughout the city for evacuees. Cash donations are needed to provide food, medical services, clothing, and shelter to displaced people.
Baby2Baby provides essential items such as diapers, food, formula and hygiene products to homeless children and families.
WCK is on the ground providing emergency food and water to first responders and displaced families.
We provide temporary housing, safe transportation, medical care, and food to evacuated dogs. You can donate cash or register to foster a dog in need.
Direct Relief provides emergency medical resources and supplies to fire-affected communities. They work closely with local health centers and first responders.
Our former deputy editor and my dear friend Sasha lost her home in Altadena. She and her family poured their heart and soul into renovating the house, but in the end they lost it. You can donate directly to help with the rebuild here.
Source: Camille Styles – camillestyles.com
