It can feel paralyzing to witness disasters of the magnitude of California’s devastating wildfires.
We are collectively worrying about our friends and families and loved ones, cultural institutions, wildlife, natural resources, and while also imagining the human toll of having your safe space, your home, being ripped away.
Communities in Vermont have faced historic flooding in recent years but nothing as massive or as catastrophic as what is happening with California’s devastating wildfires.
While there is no question that climate change is making wildfires more frequent and more severe, and while the responsibility of learning how to live on this planet without exhausting its resources or turning formerly hospitable land into an inferno is a burden we all share, the most important thing we can do right now is just help. Below are suggestions curated from community volunteers on the ground.
Here is your call to action: take a moment right now and do just one of these things. Then go finish your work emails, get dinner on the stove, and come back and do another. Share what you did on your social media platforms, and encourage others to do the same. Combat scary targeted narratives that victim blame, but then get back to direct support- actions speak louder than words.
Where to Donate Emergency Funds:
- LAFD Wildfire Emergency Fund – provides fire fighters with emergency equipment and supplies
- Boys and Girls Club of Malibu – Emergency relief fund for direct family funding, mental health needs, and shelter
- Pasadena Humane Society – Accepting monetary donations for animals hurt or displaced in the wildfires
- LA Regional Foodbank – Direct donations for disaster relief fund for feeding displaced residents
- Displaced Black Families GoFundMe Directory
If you are in California and need assistance:
- Application for Disaster Assistance – Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)
- rentersfirehelp.org – Volunteer-compiled advice for renters affected by the wildfires
Here is a Comprehensive List of LA Fire Relief Quick Links, Volunteer, and Donation Opportunities.
And in the grand scheme, we can all re-commit to making changes that prioritize environmental stewardship and foster a love of the outdoors with our kids, in the hope that future generations understand the profound effects of human created climate change and value science, innovation, and conservation. We need to work together to avoid California’s devastating wildfires from happening again in the future.
Pin this post and be sure to follow Vermont Moms on Pinterest!
Vermont Moms Insiders get exclusive content, so sign up today!