This photo was taken late last year when I visited with a special firefighting plane in Montana, one of the types of planes now being used to fight the California fires. And as a firefighter myself and a Los Angeles resident, I want to send a special thank you to all the firefighters and first responders on the front lines in Los Angeles. I have so many friends who have literally lost everything and it is impossible to calculate not just the material loss but the overriding and long-term emotional toll. Here are some available resources where you can donate whatever you can now, but please remember the work here is just beginning and the road ahead will be long and challenging.
Operation USA is a great relief organization and I’m also proud to serve on its board of directors. And they need your help and contributions. From the very first hours of the fire, OPUSA has been actively involved in providing critical aid to impacted communities in Los Angeles and is helping with aid for long-term recovery. Operation USA partners with local organizations to distribute food, water, and shelter to those affected by the fires. It helps provide resources for temporary housing or accommodations for those who evacuated or have been displaced. It also assists first responders with supplies and equipment for firefighters and emergency personnel who are working on the front lines. Please do what you can to help OPUSA help so many people now in need.
Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation
The Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation is providing equipment and funds critical programs to help the LAFD save lives and protect communities. The foundation provides emergency resources to support LAFD crews battling the fires.
The American Red Cross is sheltering families, serving meals, supporting emergency responders, providing medical care and delivering emergency relief supplies. You can volunteer with the American Red Cross or make a financial donation.
California Community Foundation
California Community Foundation is supporting wildfire relief efforts with funding to nonprofits aiding fire recovery and rebuilding efforts.
California Fire Foundation is providing critical support to surviving families of fallen firefighters, firefighters and the communities they serve.
Direct Relief staff is distributing medical air at multiple locations across Southern California, including evacuation centers and community health facilities.
Los Angeles Regional Food Bank
Los Angeles Regional Food Bank is providing emergency food assistance to families and residents that have been impacted by the fires. You can donate financially and the Food Bank is accepting food donations at its two distribution centers from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. located at:
- 1734 East 41st Street Los Angeles, CA 90058
- 2300 Pellissier Place, Industry, CA 90601
Pasadena Humane is rescuing, sheltering and reuniting pets with their owners that have been displaced.
