As wildfires continue to devastate the Los Angeles region, leaving thousands displaced and many in urgent need of assistance, we are reminded of the strength of our community and the importance of coming together in times of crisis. The situation remains dire, with widespread destruction and ongoing threats to homes, businesses, and lives.
As we respond to the immediate and long-term needs of those affected by this disaster, we’re reaching out to you with several ways to support your kin, from donating to volunteering, and even offering temporary housing to those in need.
If you are currently in need of information and resources, please see our CA Wildfire Resources Page here.
How to Help
Donate
Many Local USA 829 and IATSE kin have been directly impacted by the wildfires, and there are also numerous reputable organizations providing critical relief on the ground. Whether you’re donating directly to members of our community or to trusted relief organizations, your support will provide essential resources such as food, shelter, medical care, and financial assistance for those affected by the fires.
Donations to the Richard F. Walsh/Alfred W. Di Tolla/Harold P. Spivak Foundation
Donations can be made to the Foundation via PayPal or check.
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PayPal: Individuals, including members and non-members, may send donations via PayPal to iatsepayments@iatse.net (this is not an email address and must be copied and pasted into the PayPal portal, with “LA Wildfires” as the note/subject).
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Checks: Should be made payable to the “Walsh/Di Tolla/Spivak Foundation” and mailed to:
- The Walsh/Di Tolla/Spivak Foundation
- c/o IATSE
- 207 W. 25th St., 4th Fl.
- New York, NY 10001
Note: Employers and Local Unions must send checks.
Here are several trusted relief organizations actively providing disaster relief:
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California Fire Foundation Wildfire & Disaster Relief Fund: Supports California communities affected by wildfires by providing immediate and long-term recovery assistance. Donate here
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World Central Kitchen: Mobilizing to provide meals to first responders and evacuees. Donate here
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The American Red Cross: The Red Cross is working to provide safe shelter, food, emotional support and health services to those affected by the fires. Learn more about how the American Red Cross is providing help amid the wildfires here. Donate here
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GoFundMe Wildfire Relief Fund: GoFundMe is hosting a centralized hub for verified fundraising campaigns for wildfire victims. 100% of donations go directly to those in need. Donate here
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California Community Foundation: Focusing on long-term recovery for the most underserved communities in Los Angeles. Donate here
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CAL FIRE Benevolent Foundation: Provides financial support to firefighters and their families in times of injury or loss. Donate here
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Global Empowerment Mission: Currently delivering essential supplies to immediately support wildfire evacuees. Donate here
Offer Temporary Housing for Displaced Families
As the fires continue, many families have lost their homes and are seeking safe places to stay temporarily. If you reside around the Los Angeles area and unaffected by the wildfires, and you have the ability to offer a room, an extra bed, or a space for someone to stay, we invite you to sign up to provide temporary shelter.
Even if you can only accommodate someone for one day or a few days, your contribution can make a significant impact. We encourage everyone who can help participate and share this message with others who may be able to help.
Volunteer Your Time
If you are in a safe location and able to travel, consider safely volunteering to assist on the ground. Organizations like the Global Empowerment Mission and World Central Kitchen are always in need of hands to help distribute food, organize supplies, and assist evacuees. Even if you can only offer a few hours, your support will make a meaningful difference.
Additionally, some local fire stations and emergency response teams may need help with logistics or administration. Check in with your local response agencies to see how you can assist.
Share Information and Raise Awareness
While direct donations and volunteering are essential, spreading awareness of trusted relief efforts is equally important. Help amplify the message by sharing verified fundraising pages, emergency information, and volunteer opportunities within your network.
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Stay informed and help others stay updated on evacuation zones and safety protocols. For more information on how you can help or to access critical resources like evacuation maps, shelter information, and safety tips, please visit our Resources Page.
We know this is a difficult time, but together we can make a meaningful difference. Let’s show the power of our community by coming together to help those in need during this crisis.
Thank you for your generosity, your solidarity, and your continued support.