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.
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:
If you can adopt, please go to your closest animal care center to create life-saving space during the high winds and fire in this emergency! Our Agoura Animal Care Center had to be evacuated this morning but our remaining six animal care centers are open! #AdoptDontShop#DACCares
— LA Co Animal Care (@LACoAnimalCare) November 9, 2018
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.