Southern California is currently being devastated by unprecedented wildfires. As of January 10, there are five fires still burning through Los Angeles county, resulting in the death of five civilians, at least 1000 buildings destroyed, and tens of thousands of residents forced to evacuate.
The Palisades fire has left the Pacific Palisades area in ruins, including the Malibu and Santa Monica communities. This fire has burned through an estimated 1000 structures, and left several residents who did not evacuate injured.
The Eaton fire has burned through more than 10,600 hectares, predominantly affecting the Los Angeles national forest and the Altadena area. This fire has caused at least five deaths.
On the city's northern outskirts, the Hurst fire has taken over the Sylmar region, growing to around 300 hectares and forcing the evacuation of 3,000 residents.
The Lidia fire is burning near Acton, a residential community about 80km from Pacific Palisades, and has spanned around 144 hectares.
And most recently, in the Hollywood Hills, the Sunset fire remains unconfined, forcing tens of thousands to evacuate and threatening to destroy many iconic landmarks.
While it will take some time to comprehend the extent of the devastation, there are several ways we can offer our support to the people and places impacted, even for those of us watching on from afar. Below, where to donate to the Los Angeles Fire relief efforts.
Where to donate to the Los Angeles wildfires
The American Red Cross
The American Red Cross is providing medical care, shelter and food to those impacted through the organisation's Wildfire Relief Fund. You can make a donation online.
The California Fire Foundation
The California Fire Foundation provides support to surviving families of fallen firefighters, firefighters, and the victims of wildfires. You can make a donation online, through their Wildfire & Disaster Relief program.
The Salvation Army
The Salvation Army is responding to the fires by providing emergency aid, food, drinks, emotional care, and critical supplies to survivors and rescue workers. You can make a contribution to these relief efforts online.
The California Community Foundation
The California Community Foundation has started a Wildfire Recovery Fund, devised to offer mid- and long-term support to those impacted. You can pledge a donation online.
The World Central Kitchen
The World Central Kitchen has mobilised a team to distribute food and water to those residents who have been forced to evacuate. You can contribute to their efforts online.
Feature image via Unsplash.
