It’s been nearly three days since the California wildfires began, taking at least five lives and forcing over 100,000 people to evacuate so far. According to CNN, the Palisades fire alone has already destroyed over 1,000 structures, making it the most destructive fire in LA history.
With hurricane-force winds fanning the flames and multiple fires still at zero percent containment, it seems the destruction will only continue—and yet, as GLAMOUR recently wrote, “amid the confusion and devastation, simple acts of kindness emerged, as they often do.”
David Swanson/Getty Images
We’ve seen fire fighters work tirelessly to protect and serve their communities. We’ve seen Hollywood actors moving abandoned cars to clear the roads for first responders and evacuees. We’ve seen giant corporations and small businesses alike open their doors (and Airbnbs) to those in need. As a Los Angeles resident, I’ve personally seen dozens of peers opening their doors to those in evacuation zones, fostering displaced pets, rushing to donate necessities, and doing whatever they can to spread the word about urgent resources—from local evacuation shelters and restaurants offering free food to ways to stay safe from smoke inhalation—all while monitoring wildfire apps like Watch Duty and preparing for their own potential evacuations.
Even if you’re not able to lend a physical hand, there are still plenty of ways to help those affected by the California wildfires. Here are just some organisations that could use your support.
Patrick T. Fallon/Getty Images
American Red Cross
The American Red Cross is on the ground, providing shelter, food, and medical care to those in need.
Click here to donate now.
California Fire Foundation
According to the Los Angeles Times, the California Fire Foundation is working with “local fire agencies and community organisations to support residents impacted by the blazes.” Per their own website, the non-profit also provides support to “surviving families of fallen firefighters, firefighters, and the communities they serve.”
Click here to donate now.
Direct Relief
This organisation aims to “expand access to medicine and health care by equipping doctors and nurses with lifesaving medical resources.” Currently, the California-based organisation is working to provide medical aid to those affected by the wildfires, including “specialised wildfire kits, N95 masks, first aid supplies, and requested medications.”
Click here to donate now.
Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation
The LAFD is looking for help right now! Per the LAFD Wildfire Emergency Funding Alert, the organisation is “actively seeking funds to equip our LAFD members battling wildfires with equipment and supplies.”
Click here to donate now.
The Salvation Army
The Salvation Army delivers food, water, and emergency supplies during an emergency while also working to help rebuild after disaster strikes.
Click here to donate now.
Pasadena Humane
According to KTLA, over 100 animals arrived at Pasadena Humane on January 8, with more drop-offs expected. They are accepting monetary donations.
Click here to donate now.
World Central Kitchen
World Central Kitchen’s relief team is providing sandwiches and water to first responders and evacuees.
Click here to donate now.
This article originally appeared on GLAMOUR US.
