I started this list a few year’s ago around this same time of year in response to hearing from other parents that they were struggling to find ways they could give back to the community as a family. It seems natural to look for opportunities to help others during November when we are honoring our Veteran’s for their service, gathering to count our blessings and about to enter a season when those without a home are facing harsh weather. Due to the devastating fires impacting California right now I felt compelled to also include a list of organizations that have sprung into action to help the countless fire victims. I think it would be difficult to find a Californian that doesn’t know someone impacted by the fires. So many have lost so much. I hope you will find these lists helpful. Please let me know if you have an anything to add. I would love to continue to update this list.

How To Help California Fire Victims

American Red Cross: They are working with local government to provide numerous evacuation centers where hundreds of people are seeking refuge, along with centers which are accepting animals.

California Community Foundation’s Wildfire Relief Fund: Since 2003, the foundation has supported relief and recovery efforts in the aftermath of devastating California wildfires.  Grants have gone to rebuilding homes, providing financial and mental health assistance and helping those affected to get medical treatment.

California Fire Foundation:  Through its emergency assistance program, firefighters distribute pre-paid gift cards to help those suffering substantial property loss with immediate on-site assistance.

Humane Society of Ventura County: This private nonprofit is accepting donations to help animals displaced by the Woolsey and Hill Fires. It is taking in domestic animals, such as dogs, cats and birds, as well as livestock.

Salvation Army: They have deployed multiple teams to provide meal services at evacuation centers.

United Way of Greater Los Angeles, in partnership with the United Way of Ventura County: These local branches of the national organization have created a disaster relief fund for those affected by the Woolsey and Hill Fires, specifically to help low-income residents.

United Way of Northern California: This local chapter of the national nonprofit has established a disaster relief fund to provide emergency cash and other forms of emergency assistance to people who lost their homes, and to support UWNC’s general disaster response as needs are further identified.

GoFundMe has organized a page with links to verified GoFundMe campaigns to help those impacted by the devastating fires.

Volunteer Opportunities in the Bay Area

 Click here to find a calendar containing various volunteer opportunities all over the Bay Area on specific days that work with your schedule.    

ARF