Wildfires have ravaged over 37,000 acres of the Los Angeles metropolitan area, leaving more than 12,000 structures destroyed, displacing over 150,000 residents, and causing at least 13 deaths. The White House has provided federal disaster assistance to aid in the recovery efforts, and donations from around the world are pouring in.
Patricia McIlreavy from the Center for Disaster Philanthropy emphasizes the need for long-term support for the Los Angeles community beyond immediate relief efforts. She encourages donations to organizations focused on preventing residents from falling behind due to the devastation.
Brea Burkholz from Direct Relief cautions against donating large bags of miscellaneous items directly to shelters, as they may not have the capacity to handle them. Instead, she suggests volunteering time or assisting specific families in need of particular items.
Wendy Escobedo of World Central Kitchen highlights the need for toiletries such as diapers, wipes, and towels at city shelters. She recommends donating directly to organizations to avoid scammers taking advantage of the crisis.
California officials have warned about scammers and urge the public to research organizations before donating. The California Community Foundation, American Red Cross, and World Central Kitchen are among the vetted charities providing support for the wildfire recovery efforts in Los Angeles.
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