Thousands of Angelinos have been forced to flee their homes while forest fires break out for the area While some will be able to return home when it is safe, others have lost everything. Several major companies, including FOX Corporation, are joining the relief efforts with donations of cash and services.
Here are the businesses lending a hand in Los Angeles and how you can join the relief efforts:
SoCal Credit Union
The Credit Union of Southern California is offering $1.25 million in interest-free loans to help those affected by the wildfires. The company is also donating $10,000 to CU Aid, which aims to support credit unions, their employees and their communities during critical times.
“We are deeply committed to supporting our neighbors during this difficult time,” company president and CEO Dave Gunderson said in a statement. “Through our financial aid programs and our donation to CU Aid, we aim to provide immediate and meaningful assistance to those affected by the wildfires.”
Credit Union of Southern California’s charitable foundation, Helping Hands, will match all employee donations made through Jan. 17, up to $5,000.
Click here to learn more about loans offered by CU of SoCal.
SpaceX
On Friday, SpaceX CEO Elon Musk announced that the company would provide free Starlink terminals in areas of Los Angeles affected by wildfires.
In his announcement on X, his social media platform, Musk shared a clip of a Fox 11 reporter praising Starlink, saying it’s “the only reason viewers got to see it, already that the area has “absolutely no cell service. .”
Airbnb
Airbnb offers free temporary housing those in the LA area affected by wildfires. The property rental platform announced Wednesday its partnership with 211 LA, a longtime Los Angeles-area nonprofit.
“Stays are completely free for guests and are funded by Airbnb.org and the generosity of Airbnb hosts, many of whom offer their homes for free or at a discount through Airbnb.org,” he explained. Airbnb.
The company is also helping hosts who offer their homes by waiving service fees and offering damage protection and liability insurance with every booking, Airbnb said in a statement.
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The NFL
NFL family pledges $5 million to help communities affected by wildfires. The league, which has two L.A.-based teams, announced the donation, which is being “led by individual contributions from clubs and ownership groups of the Los Angeles Chargers, Los Angeles Rams, Minnesota Vikings, Houston Texans and the NFL Foundation “.
“We are heartbroken by the devastating losses experienced by so many people in the Los Angeles area and inspired by the heroism of the first responders and residents who have supported their neighbors,” said NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell. in a statement. “The NFL family is committed to working with the Los Angeles Chargers and Los Angeles Rams to support their local communities in times of need.”
The Walt Disney Company
Disney is committing $15 million to wildfire relief and rebuilding efforts in Los Angeles. The company said it will support organizations such as the American Red Cross, the Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation and the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank. Disney is also committed to helping its employees in the Los Angeles area through its Employee Relief Fund.
“Walt Disney arrived in Los Angeles with little more than his limitless imagination, and it was here that he chose to make his home, pursue his dreams, and create an extraordinary narrative that means so much to so many people everywhere of the world. We are proud to provide assistance to this resilient and vibrant community in this time of need,” Disney CEO Bob Iger said in a statement.
fanatics
Popular sportswear brand Fanatics has released its line of “LA Strong” t-shirts featuring logos from various teams in the Los Angeles area, including the Lakers, Dodgers, Rams, Chargers and more. On its website, Fanatics encourages sports fans to show their “love and support for the City of Angels.” Proceeds from sales will go to the American Red Cross and the LA Fire Department Foundation, Fanatics announced.
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Verizon
Verizon waives domestic call, text and data usage for prepaid customers. In addition, the telecom giant is making its stores available for those who need free Wi-Fi and charging.
“Our hearts go out to all those affected by the devastating wildfires in Pacific Palisades, Pasadena and surrounding areas,” said Steven Keller, Verizon’s Pacific Market President. “We understand how important it is to stay connected during emergencies like these, and we are fully committed to supporting these communities, first responders and our customers in every way possible.”
In the statement, Keller expressed Verizon’s commitment to “continue to work tirelessly to ensure that reliable communication remains a lifeline for those who need it.”
Verizon announced that it has also rolled out free Wi-Fi and charging stations for the public at several locations, saying more are on the way.
hooks
Grocery giant Kroger announced that its family of companies has pledged $1 million to help wildfire victims.
“We strive to fulfill our purpose, to feed the human spirit, every day, and especially when disaster strikes,” said Rodney McMullen, Kroger’s president and CEO. “Our hearts go out to everyone affected by this tragedy, especially our team of associates and their extended families, and we are grateful to the first responders who work so hard to protect our communities.”
CVS
CVS is redirecting calls from pharmacies closed due to the fires to those located in safe areas and open. The company also offers to help arrange alternative delivery options for CVS specialty patients. In addition, CVS Health is working with local organizations to provide support on the ground.
FOX Corporation
FOX Corporation donates $1 million to aid American Red Cross wildfire relief efforts. In addition, FOX Corporation, which continues to be a partner in the Annual Disaster Program, is encouraging viewers to do their part to help families affected by the devastating wildfires and continue to urgently need support. Every donation allows the Red Cross to better respond and help residents recover from this disaster.
To give, visit GO.FOX/RED CROSS or scan the QR code below.
HELP PEOPLE AFFECTED BY THE CALIFORNIA FIRES HERE
As of Saturday, the fires had killed at least 11 people, destroyed more than 12,300 homes and businesses and left thousands under evacuation orders.
Yael Halon, Alex Nitzberg and Aislinn Murphy contributed to this report.