Currently, three major fires - Woosley, Camp and Hill - have spread throughout California, destroying more than 6,700 structures and killing at least 31 people. More than 30,000 people have been forced to evacuate from their homes, and firefighters say that this tragedy is far from being over.
Despite our distance from these raging fires, Texans can still do their part to support victims as they flee and recover. Here are some of the best ways you can lend your aid to California right now.
- Donate to the American Red Cross. As they do with many disasters, the Red Cross has swooped in to set up temporary shelters and provide food to people in need. Sending them $10 is easy; just text REDCROSS to 90999. You can also visit www.redcross.org to make a bigger donation.
- Make a donation to the CCF Wildfire Relief Fund. They support intermediate and long-term recovery efforts for major California wildfires, and they help the state prepare for other disasters in the future. You can donate at this link.
- Give to the Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation. This is one of the organizations supporting first responders fighting the wildfires, and they are currently in need of funds to purchase hydration backpacks for the firefighters. Click here to give.
- Assist many people through the California Fire Foundation. This statewide nonprofit tries to get funds to everyone who has been affected by distributing prepaid Mastercards to victims who were forced to evacuate in a hurry. They can use the funds to pay for lodging, food, and other necessities. Learn more or donate here.
- Support animals at the Humane Society of Ventura County. This organization has been taking in animals that were evacuated from two of the big fires. They need help purchasing food and other necessities. You can donate on this website.
- Help children affected by the fires through Baby2Baby. The organization is supplying diapers, wipes, blankets, and other necessities to families in need. Click here to view their registry of needed items.
How are you supporting people affected by the wildfires in California? Let us know in the comments.