CHICAGO, Jan. 10, 2025 /PRNewswire/ – BMO announced today that it continues to support the people and communities affected by the wildfires in Los Angeles area through donations to two organizations that provide relief efforts on the ground. This is in addition to its ongoing annual support of American Red Cross Emergency Relief Fund.

BMO donated a total of $100,000 ($50,000 respectively) to the following organizations as it continues to monitor the situation:

United Way of Greater Los Angeles Wildfire Response Fund: United Way of Greater Los Angeles is a critical agency to help when wildfires strike Los Angeles place It addresses urgent, ongoing needs, including support for low-income individuals whose livelihoods are disrupted, people experiencing homelessness and those who provide services to support them, and disruptions to organizations in community and small businesses. Anyone who wants to personally learn more or support wildfire relief efforts United Way of Greater Los Angeles it can be done at this link.

Direct Relief Wildfire Response: Direct Relief responds to wildfires by providing a wide variety of medical assistance requests, from wound care to chronic disease treatments, and by distributing emergency grant fund. Direct Relief also supports local health organizations, improves resilience, and works to increase access to care in communities affected by wildfires and other emergencies. They provide medical aid, emergency funding, solar and renewable power, and research and analysis to help governments and first responders make informed decisions about wildfires. Anyone who would like to personally learn more about Direct Relief or support their relief efforts can do so at this link.

“Our thoughts are with everyone affected by the ongoing wildfires Los Angeles. We remain committed to supporting our communities, customers and partners during this difficult time,” said Darrel Hackett, CEO, BMO US “These two organizations are providing critical resources and relief efforts on the ground in response to this disaster and we want to do our part to support their work.”

“As we deal with the devastating devastation caused by forest fires Los Angeles community and the long recovery efforts ahead, we are extremely grateful for the generosity of key supporters like BMO. Their contribution to ours Wildfire Response Fund will help address significant ongoing needs for Angelenos,” said Elise BuikPresident and CEO of United Way of Greater Los Angeles. “Together, we will rebuild our neighborhoods as a strong community.”

“Direct Relief is grateful to BMO for cooperating with our wildfire response Los Angeles and Southern California. BMO’s generosity will help speed up Direct Relief’s response and make it more impactful”, said Tom RoaneVice President of Corporate Engagement, Direct Relief.

BMO has long supported humanitarian and emergency relief appeals in US and internationally to help those affected by extreme weather, health crises and conflicts.

About BMO Financial Group
BMO Financial Group is the eighth largest bank in North America by assets, with total assets of $1.41 trillion as of October 31, 2024. Serving customers for 200 years and counting, BMO a diverse group of employees with many employees providing a broad range of personal and commercial banking, wealth management, global markets and investment products and services to 13 million customers across Canada, the United Statesand in selected markets worldwide. Driven by a purpose, to Boldly Grow Goodin business and life, BMO committed to driving positive change in the world, and progress for a prosperous economy, sustainable future, and inclusive society.