The immediate crisis in California from the wildfires is largely dealt with, but there’s much to be done to help folks who’ve lost their houses, and are trying to pick back up their lives.
In addition to what I earlier posted, Margie forwarded me some info from her employer with some relief fund info.
During the days immediately after a disaster, financial contributions are the ones most welcome and can be put to immediate use for the people in the most need. Below is a list of organizations collecting donations specifically for Southern California wildfires.
Note: The Better Business Bureau Wise Giving Guide, through the website give.org, is a valuable resource for employees and physicians who want to better understand the organizations to which they donate.
- American Red Cross/Disaster Relief Fund-Southern California Wildfires | 800-733-2767 or 800-257-7575 (Español)
The Salvation Army – US West Region (In the field marked “Specific Use,” type “Southern California Wildfires”) | 800-725-2769
California Community Foundation | 213-413-4130
The CCF has established the Southern California Wildfire Relief Fund to receive contributions from donors in support of immediate recovery needs with a particular focus on needy populations, those in need of affordable housing, and nonprofits serving the affected areas. The foundation will match the first $250,000 in contributions received.The Community Foundation (Riverside and San Bernardino counties) | 951-684-4194
A Fire Relief Fund has been established to help sustain operations of non-profit organizations and to assist people affected by the fires.- San Diego Foundation | 619-235-2300
The foundation has established three funds responding to the fires:
- The After the Fires Fund. Similar to the fund’s effort following the 2003 San Diego fires, this fund will support first-response efforts, but the primary focus will be ongoing recovery and rebuilding throughout the San Diego region.
- The Fire Relief Biotech Immediate Response Fund will provide grants to nonprofits that provide immediate relief to residents affected by the wildfires.
- The Fire Relief Biotech Recovery Fund will provide grants to non-profits working in the weeks, months, and years ahead to help with rebuilding efforts.
Jewish Community Foundation of San Diego | 858-279-2740
The Jewish Community Disaster Fund has been established to provide assistance to Jewish families and others in need who have been affected by the fires, as well as to rebuild communal infrastructure if required.The Los Angeles Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals | 888 772 2511 – Donations are needed to support efforts to provide emergency shelter for animals displaced by the fires.
- The United Way of Ventura County | 805-485-6288 x276 – The organization needs volunteers. Interested people can leave contact information through the website.
I note that my favorite charity, the Episcopal Relief & Development Fund, is also providing emergency assistance for those who need it. Online donation can be done here.