Here’s How You Can Help Those Affected by the California Wildfires

250,000 Evacuated In Southern California As Woolsey Fire Torches Over 80,000 Acres
Getty Images | Sandy Huffaker

As wildfires continue to rage across the state of California, people are stepping in to do their part to help. When Toyota learned that Allyn Pierce, an ICU nurse at a hospital in Paradise, California, was able to narrowly escape the fire in his Toyota Tundra (which then ended up looking like a toasted marshmallow), the company gifted him a new truck.

If you’re also looking for ways to help the people (and animals) affected by these tragedies, there are a number of ways to give back to those in need. Here are some of the best options for lending a helping hand.

Donate

According to the Center for International Disaster Information, financial assistance is one of the most efficient ways to help in the wake of a disaster. There are a number of organizations working on relief efforts that are seeking donations, including American Red Cross and Salvation Army. You can also help out with crowdfunding campaigns on GoFundMe.

american red cross photo
Getty Images | Mario Tama

Volunteer

If you’d prefer to give your time, check out volunteer opportunities through Caring Choices or American Red Cross.

If you want to help our non-human friends who have been affected by the fires, you can volunteer to help the Humane Society of Ventura County in its efforts to care for the animals who have been evacuated.

You could also provide a forever home to a pet in need. Per the tweet below, the Los Angeles County Department of Animal Care and Control is asking people to adopt from their nearest animal care centers during this difficult time:

wildfire volunteer photo
Getty Images | David McNew

Give Shelter

As many have lost their homes in the fires, you can provide temporary, free housing for those displaced through Airbnb. A place to call home during this time of upheaval would be of great help to many families.

home photo
Flickr | pasa47

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About the Author
Kate Streit
Kate Streit lives in Chicago. She enjoys stand-up comedy, mystery novels, memoirs, summer and pumpkin spice anything.

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