In times of natural disasters, community foundations are a great resource and convenor for helping those impacted. The California Community Foundation is sharing several ways that folks can help support communities ravaged by multiple wildfires, which are threatening neighborhoods and forcing people to leave their homes:

“This year follows one of Southern California’s largest and most destructive wildfire seasons, in which the Hill and Woolsey fires set more than 102,000 acres ablaze, killing three, destroying 1,500 structures and forcing close to 300,000 from their homes as mandatory evacuations were declared from Malibu to Simi Valley. San Luis Obispo County saw incredible  damage, with six large fires springing to life in early June.

The immediate needs of those affected by the wildfires are great, and the recovery process will be long and difficult in communities throughout the state. The list below contains links to information and local resources for those affected as well as to organizations providing immediate and long-term relief. It will be updated as more information and resources are available.

Region-wide

• The CCF Wildfire Relief Fund supports intermediate and long-term recovery efforts for major California wildfires, as well as preparedness efforts.
• The CCF California Disaster Fund supports disaster preparedness efforts and resiliency planning.
• The State of California’s Guide to Disaster Assistance Services for Immigrant Californians provides information on health, housing, emergency supplies, employment and other services available to all Californians, regardless of their immigration status.
• The California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services connects residents with a wide range of services and programs targeted specifically at those who have been affected by wildfires.
• The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) provides emergency medical, housing and other types of assistance for those affected by disasters.
• The California Fire Foundation provides emotional and financial support to fallen firefighters and the communities they protect.

Los Angeles County

• The Red Cross Los Angeles Region  provides provides access to shelter locations, evacuation updates and safety information for residents of L.A. County
• 211 L.A. County timely access to emergency, health and human service information and referrals for L.A. County residents.
• L.A. County Fire Department provides information on shelters, mandatory evacuation orders and other safety information.

When supporting relief organizations, consider marking your gift as general operating support. By doing so, you enable the organization to both respond to current disasters and be prepared for those that may arise in the future. Visit CCF’s disaster giving page for more tips on how to maximize your impact when giving to disaster relief.