16:58, 09 January 2025
Words by Cheyanne Bryan, Editorial and Campaign Marketing Executive, London
California is experiencing such devastating wildfires across the state. There are currently 5 large fires spread out within the LA region including one each in Hollywood Hills and Malibu.
Emergency responders and businesses have teamed up to provide evacuees with the needed help and support to mitigate the risk and further crisis involved.
Officials have attributed the recent wildfires to high winds and drought, which have dried out vegetation, making it more susceptible to burning. David Acuna, a battalion chief at the California Fire Service, states that around 95% of wildfires in the area are human-caused, but the origin of the current fires is still under investigation. A significant factor in the rapid spread of the fires is the winds, which blow from inland to the coast, reaching speeds over 60mph and accelerating the flames.
As of recent information, more than 137,000 people have been forced to leave their homes with Over a thousand structures known to have been destroyed - including houses and schools, and local businesses on the iconic tourist hotspot Sunset Boulevard.
A fire ecologist has told the BBC that "entire neighbourhoods... have been wiped out".
There is a ray of hope for victims, as the fire weather outlook for Southern California has downgraded the severity from "extremely critical" to "critical".
The California Fire Foundation
This organisation is currently providing frontline support to help Californians in the area and surrounding. The nonprofit is known for their honourable work of supporting late firefighters and those affected by fire-related tragedies, including connecting families to financial aid, and recovery services.
REACT is a UK-based charity focused on emergency and crisis response. The charity utilises the ex-military or rescue skills of their volunteers to work and respond to humanitarian crises and disasters in affected areas.
While REACT is not currently deploying Responders, they continue to closely monitor the situation and stand poised to help if the situation evolves. In a quote to Smiley News about the recent wildfires across Greater California, REACT says: “At REACT, we focus on providing support where we can make a difference, often in places without the infrastructure to respond effectively to disasters. While we are not directly involved in the California wildfires, we believe preparedness and community action are critical in mitigating the impact of such events.
“As REACT CEO Toby Wicks emphasises: Preparedness is something we all share responsibility for. Simple steps like creating a family communication plan, assembling an emergency kit, and knowing evacuation routes can make a huge difference in a disaster like a wildfire. It’s also important to listen to local authorities and support the incredible work of relief organisations and first responders on the ground. Responding to fires is inherently dangerous; compromised air quality or unseen threats can pose serious risks. Taking proactive measures helps protect not only yourself but also those putting their lives on the line to keep communities safe."
Being born out of the several new fundraising efforts that have emerged, Operation Gratitude has focused on getting vital supplies to those most in need and ensuring that recovery efforts remain strong and accessible to all.
The organisation sends care packages filled with snacks, personal care items, and letters of gratitude to those serving on the front lines. In addition to military personnel, the organisation also recognises and supports veterans, active-duty service members, and other community heroes - sharing a sense of connection and appreciation, helping to boost morale and provide comfort to those who serve and protect others.
Airbnb is offering free accommodation and shelter to those evacuating. To support residents displaced from their homes or forced to evacuate due to the wildfires, Airbnb.org is collaborating with 211 LA, which serves Los Angeles County, to provide free, temporary accommodation. Stays are completely free for guests and are funded by Airbnb.org and the generosity of Airbnb hosts, many of whom are also offering up their homes free of charge or at a reduced rate through Airbnb.org.
Find out more about this works.
This instrumental nonprofit organisation has a history of providing vital support and services to individuals and families facing homelessness, addiction, hunger, and other life challenges.
Due to already being a facility that offers emergency housing, food, medical care and rehabilitation, The Dream Center welcomes those affected by the fires and seeking a place of refuge.
Find them at 2301 Bellevue Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90026.
At Smiley Movement, we like to elevate the work of charities across the world. Here are three charities whose causes align with the themes in this article.
REACT. This is a UK-based charity focused on emergency and crisis response. The charity utilises the ex-military or rescue skills to provide aid and support. Find out more.
Operation Gratitude. An initiative getting vital supplies to those most in need and ensuring that recovery efforts remain strong and accessible to all. Learn more here.
The California Fire Association. This nonprofit supports late firefighters and those affected by fire-related tragedies, including connecting families to financial aid, and recovery services. Support them here.
This article aligns with the UN SDG Partnerships For The Goals.
