9 Charities Assisting the Victims of California’s Wildfires

To date, the recent wildfire in Northern California has left 81 dead and more than 1,000 residents missing from Paradise and surrounding communities. The worst fire in the state’s history has destroyed more than 18,421 homes and other buildings over more than 100,000 acres.

The “Camp Fire,” “Hill,” and “Woolsey” fires have forced more than 52,000 people from their homes and destroyed more than 7,600 homes completely. In total, California has lost 1,600,000 acres to wildfires in 2018 alone.

What’s Needed Most for California Wildfire Victims

Keep in mind while clothing, food, and water are necessary, they are more difficult to manage and distribute. Most charitable organizations prefer either cash or gift card donations that can be used to purchase much needed supplies locally.

Here are some of the leading charities that could use your help.

• The REALTORS® Relief Foundation. “The foundation has made a $1 million commitment to wildfire victims. Your support will help us continue meeting the immediate housing needs of disaster victims.”
• American Red Cross. “The deadly Camp Fire in California is now 100% contained. The Red Cross began its relief response more than two weeks ago and remains on the ground, providing shelter, food, and comfort to those impacted by these devastating fires.”
• Salvation Army. “The Salvation Army has already deployed multiple teams to provide meal services at evacuation centers.”
• United Way of Northern California. “…announced the establishment of the NorCal Disaster Relief Fund to aid victims of the Camp Fire, which has burned at least 70,000 acres, killed at least five people, destroyed much of the town of Paradise, threatens the city of Chico, and forced tens of thousands to evacuate.”
• United Way of Greater Los Angeles. “…has opened a Southern California Disaster Relief Fund to support long-term recovery from the Hill and Woolsey wildfires for low-income individuals and families throughout Southern California.”
• California Community Foundation’s Wildfire Relief Fund. “Supports intermediate and long-term recovery efforts for major California wildfires, as well as preparedness efforts.”
• Caring Choices. This 501(c)(3) nonprofit was established in 1993 with the mission to “improve the health and welfare of residents in Northern California by providing services that are currently non-existent or limited in availability and accessibility, improving community services through volunteerism.”
• The California Fire Foundation. “Provides emotional and financial assistance to families of fallen firefighters.”
• Humane Society of Ventura County. “Is a private nonprofit founded in 1932… that serves the people and animals of Ventura County. ONE HUNDRED percent of your donations stay right here to benefit directly the animals in our community.”

Obviously these are only a few of the charities which have stepped up to assist. For more check Charity Navigator. The devastation in California is incomprehensible, the need for help unquestionable. Please donate whatever you can.