Americans are looking to do their part as the devastating wildfires continue to ravage Los Angeles — and there are many ways to help at this important time.
All too soon, various local and national relief funds and charities have turned their attention to the tragedy, working around the clock to give emergency personnel and devastated victims everything they need to cope with the natural disaster.
And support is needed now more than ever, Liz Lin, president of the Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation, told The Post.
“We’re going into the third day of the fire and everyone is starting to get tired,” Lin said.
“We’re in it for the long haul,” she added — saying the LAFD and other responders likely have at least another month of work ahead of them.
Lin’s organization is currently raising emergency funds for the supplies City of Angels firefighters need most — as they continue the grueling battle against the terrifying blaze.
At this time, Lin explained, the LAFDF is using donations to purchase more fire shelters — ground-level aluminum tent-like covers that firefighters can dig into for safety in dire situations.
The money sent will also help the support organization purchase hand tools such as rakes and shovels for brush fires. According to Lin, hydration backpacks are also needed for firefighters.
The foundation is just one part of a vast network of groups that raise funds for supplies and services — to the point where it can become disorienting for those trying to help.
For this reason, Laurie Styron, CEO and executive director of CharityWatch, told CNBC, it’s important that Americans don’t give impulsively.
“Take your time to confirm that a charity is not only legitimate and efficient, but is actively providing aid on the ground.â€
She also warned against putting money into crowdfunded campaigns as well.
“Charities are better equipped to distribute aid equally to all those who need help.”
And there are other ways, Lin pointed out, to show your support besides financial consideration — anyone can quickly boost the morale of first responders with a public show of support.
“Show your love and show your oneness of soul with them on social media,” she urged.
“When men and women leave [their shifts]I’m telling them to go ahead and scroll through the Instagram and Facebook posts so they can see all the love they’re getting,” she said.
Where to donate to Los Angeles fire relief
Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation
Addresses the needs and equipment your firefighters need in real time.
https://supportlafd.org/
California Community Foundation
Manages short- and long-term recovery for those displaced and affected by the fires.
https://www.calfund.org/
California Fire Foundation
Coordinates with local fire departments and organizations to provide financial assistance to affected residents.
https://www.cafirefoundation.org/
Mutual aid LA
A network that highlights where and how people can donate needed supplies. It also acts as a forum where those affected can list what they need most.
https://mutualaidla.org/
Los Angeles Regional Food Bank
Accepting food donations and volunteers in many countries.
https://www.lafoodbank.org/
LA Emergency Network
Provides general assistance to those who need assistance.
https://enla.org/
LA Works
It focuses on the mobilization of volunteers in disaster-affected areas.
https://www.laworks.com/
Pasadena Humane
Coordinates with animal control to evacuate animals and also works with shelters to take in pets of displaced families. As of Wednesday, they had helped take in over 300 animals.
https://give.pasadenahumane.org/
League of California Community Foundations
A coalition of California nonprofits coordinating relief efforts, including rebuilding homes and addressing the mental health impacts of the disaster.
https://lccf.org/
Cal Fire Benevolent Foundation
Provides funding for injured firefighters and their families.
https://calfire.foundation/
Pasadena Community Foundation
It has established the Eaton Canyon Fire Relief and Recovery Fund, which coordinates with other local organizations to provide assistance.
https://pasadenacf.org/
Entertainment Industry Foundation
Hollywood helps to support firefighters and other first responders.
https://www.eifoundation.org/
Firemen’s Aid Association
Provides financial and emotional support to families of firefighters.
https://www.lafra.org/
United Way of Ventura County
Supports short and long term relief for residents.
https://vcunitedway.org/
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