Wildfires in California continue to leave a trail of destruction, devastating homes, communities, and wildlife. In times like these, coming together to help those affected is essential. Whether you want to assist displaced families, support first responders, or help animals, here are actionable ways to make a difference.
Helping Families Who Lost Their Homes
When wildfires destroy homes, survivors often lose everything, including basic necessities and cherished belongings. Here’s how you can help:
1. Donate to Relief Funds
- Organizations like the California Community Foundation’s Wildfire Recovery Fund and the American Red Cross provide direct assistance to families, such as shelter, food, and financial support.
- World Central Kitchen: Delivers fresh meals to first responders and displaced families.
- Direct Relief: Supplies medical resources to those affected.
- FirstService Relief Fund: We established our Relief Fund to provide financial assistance to team members facing personal financial hardship. Many of your colleagues have been impacted by the wildfires, and donating to the fund is one small way to help them.
- People First Fund: Provides financial aid to individuals and families who have been impacted by the Southern California Wildfires.
2. Support Local Shelters
- Many displaced families turn to local shelters for temporary housing. Consider donating supplies like clothing, toiletries, and non-perishable food. You can find shelter locations and needs through California Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES). It’s a good idea to first check to see what kinds of items they are accepting before donating items.
3. Contribute Gift Cards
- Gift cards for grocery stores, gas stations, or major retailers like Target and Walmart allow families to purchase exactly what they need during recovery.
4. Volunteer Your Time
- If you’re local, volunteer with organizations like Habitat for Humanity to assist in rebuilding efforts or with local food banks to distribute supplies.
Supporting First Responders
Firefighters and emergency responders risk their lives to save communities. Here’s how you can express your gratitude and provide support:
1. Donate to Firefighter Foundations
2. Send Care Packages
- Assemble care packages with high-energy snacks, electrolyte drinks, and personal care items for firefighters on the frontlines. Check with your local fire department to see what’s needed.
3. Advocate for Better Resources
- Contact your local and state representatives to advocate for funding and resources for firefighting equipment, training, mental health services and wildfire prevention programs.
Helping Animals Affected by Wildfires
Wildfires displace not only people but also pets, livestock, and wildlife. Here are ways you can assist:
1. Donate to Animal Rescue Organizations
2. Foster or Adopt
- Local shelters often experience overcrowding after disasters. Fostering or adopting a pet can free up space and save lives.
Check with organizations like SPCALA, Pasadena Humane.
3. Provide Supplies
- Donate food, bedding, and medical supplies for pets and wildlife. Some shelters have Amazon Wish Lists, making it easy to send supplies directly to them.
4. Support Wildlife Recovery
- Donate to organizations like WildCare that rehabilitate injured wildlife and help restore habitats destroyed by wildfires.
Take Action Today
California wildfire victims—whether people, animals, or first responders—need our support. Every contribution, no matter how small, makes a difference in their recovery.
By donating, volunteering, or advocating, you can bring hope and relief to those affected by these devastating events. For additional resources, visit:
Small Actions, Big Impact
In times of disaster, collective efforts can make a profound difference. Whether you’re donating money, volunteering your time, or simply sharing resources, your support helps wildfire victims rebuild their lives and recover from the devastation.
Together, we can stand with California wildfire victims and show them they’re not alone.