climate

Wildfires are wreaking havoc in southern California. Numerous organizations are helping - and we can help them. (Credit: Wikimedia Commons) This past week, our eyes have been drawn west by a blaze too big and too bright to look away from. Several wildfires have been ravaging the greater Los Angeles area. As of publication, 24 people have died, nearly 20 are missing, and over 100,000 have been ordered to evacuate their homes. The flames have devoured a swath of the city that is larger than the entirety of its northern urban neighbor, San Francisco, destroying homes and businesses alike. Forecasted wind gusts threaten to exacerbate an already overwhelming problem – as does rampant misinformation. Though wildfires are a naturally occurring phenomenon, the frequency and strength of these blazes is unprecedented, and a direct result of climate change. And, it’s very much worth nothing, the situation is rife with inequities: Prison inmates are battling the flames on the ground as billionaires contribute disproportionately to the broader problem. Looking at the situation from this vantage point feels almost as daunting as, say, watching an out-of-control fire burn up a mountain towering before you – which makes it all the more critical that people band together to combat it. But where does one even start? In times like these, we remember the sage words of celebrated author Octavia Butler, who 25 years ago offered this advice, in an essay in Essence: "here’s no single answer that will solve all of our … problems. There’s no magic bullet. Instead there are thousands of answers – at least. You can be one of them if you choose to be.” We’ve gathered up a list of organizations that are tangibly helping out those left in dire need by these fires – each could use your amplification, and yes, your money (as you’re able), to continue their work. You can also scroll through this spreadsheet of grassroots efforts organized by the Mutual Aid L.A. Network. (Note: If you see an operation that you wish to contribute to, but are not overly familiar with, you can check them out via sites like Charity Navigator.) Stay safe, stay aware – and stay ready to be one of those thousands of answers. 1. GoFundMe’s GoFundMeThe popular crowdfunding site has put together its own wildfire relief fund – as of today, over $2.5 million has been raised. Those funds are being distributed to verified GoFundMe users who are trying to recover by organizing their own campaigns. Down the road, some of it may be allocated for helping small businesses and verified nonprofits, the GoFundMe site adds.HELP OUT HERE 2. Los Angeles Regional Food BankIn partnership with over 600 “government agencies, nonprofit and faith-based partners,” this organization is keeping Angelinos fed while they navigate tragedy – and the power outages and water shortages that have come along with it. And, they’re committed to doing so for as long as it takes city residents to rebuild, officials add.HELP OUT HERE 3. World Central KitchenWorld Central Kitchen is also helping to stave off the hunger plaguing people impacted by the wildfires. Like the Food Bank, they accomplish this work through on-the-ground partnerships. They also deploy food trucks and emergency kitchens to address the mounting need. HELP OUT HERE 4. Direct ReliefThis operation addresses unmet medical and healthcare needs caused by tragedies, regardless of whether recipients have insurance or not. In Los Angeles, this has meant the distribution of N95 respirators, various prescription medicines and vaccines, and other medical supplies. They have also provided protective gear. HELP OUT HERE 5. Pasadena Humane SocietyOver 600 displaced animals have found refuge at this shelter – some injured, some separated from their families, and some abandoned by people fleeing in fear. “This is an operation of unprecedented scale and complexity, and we are doing everything in our power to meet the immense challenges of the situation,” officials said.HELP OUT HERE 6. Save the ChildrenToday's youngest generation is most likely to suffer the worst outcomes of climate change. Save the Children is looking out for kids amid these wildfires by distributing hygiene kits and blankets, restoring education and childcare facilities that were damaged, and providing mental health services to kids and caregivers alike.HELP OUT HERE 7. Entertainment Community FundThis fundraiser will assist those in the entertainment industry who have been impacted by the fires – and many of them have been. People have lost both homes and work. Though celebrities such as actor Eugene Levy and singer Mandy Moore have suffered blows, this fund will focus on actors, directors and more who do not have the money their more famous counterparts do.HELP OUT HERE 8. L.A. Fire Department FoundationThey’re on the front lines, doing all they can to mitigate the spread and damage of these wildfires. But they need help, specifically in the form of hydration backpacks, tools for creating barriers and, most critical of all, emergency fire shelters that keep firefighters safe when they are overrun by the very flames they are trying to extinguish.HELP OUT HERE

climate

As Los Angeles Burns, Here Are 8 Ways to Help

The Story Exchange

climate

As Los Angeles Burns, Here Are 8 Ways to Help

The Story Exchange

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