The California fires show no sign of stopping as they continue to destroy everything in their path. Three separate fires, named “Camp Fire,” “Woolsey Fire,” and the “Hill Fire,” combine to make the worse devastation by wildfire since 1933.
The Camp Fire was the first to erupt last Thursday and has taken more than 40 lives and burned 117,000 acres of land (as of 11/13). As of last night, it’s only 30% contained, meaning it’s still flowing strong.
The Woolsey Fire began outside LA last Thursday as well. It doubled in size overnight, and burned through 100,000 acres. Many in the path of the Woolsey Fire did not realize it was so close until it was too late.
The Hill Fire is the smallest of the two and was mostly contained last night due to favorable weather conditions and hardworking firefighters. There is still a lot more to this battle to be dealt with, however.
Celebrities are amongst those losing their homes, including Gerard Butler, Miley Cyrus, Liam Hemsworth, Robin Thicke, and dozens of others.
How you can help
As someone who lives nowhere near California, it can be daunting figuring out where to donate. Here’s some approved non-profits that are working hard to help those in need.
Animal Hope and Wellness
Animal Hope and Wellness are on-site rescuing animals left behind, animals that are running from the fires, and more. Many of these animals include horses that were tagged and set free in hopes of them finding safety and being reunited at a later date.
To donate to Animal Hope and Wellness for supplies, vet expenses, etc, click here.
California Fire Foundation
California Fire Foundation provides victim assistance to those fleeing their homes and to those who lost their homes. They provide emergency short-term financial assistance to victims, including both firefighters and civilians.
To donate to California Fire Foundation, click here.
California Community Foundation: Wildfire Relief Fund
The California Community Foundation: Wildfire Relief Fund “supports intermediate and long-term recovery efforts for major California wildfires, as well as preparedness efforts.” They help those displaced with housing and belongings, with mental health services, follow-up medical care, and more.
To donate to California Community Foundation, click here.
Caring Choices
After the fires became more destructive, Caring Choices turned into a hub for organizing volunteers to help with the “Camp Fire.” Volunteers offer medical care (for those who are certified), care for displaced animals, and more.
To donate to Caring Choices, click here.
Humane Society of Ventura County
The Humane Society is accepting donations to help the hundreds of displaced animals by the Woolsey and Hill Fires. They are currently taking care of domestic animals and livestock.
To donate to the Humane Society of Venture County, click here.
North Valley Community Foundation
This nonprofit is helping to raise money for those evacuated by the Camp Fire. They are distributing money to churches, community centers, and fairgrounds that are offering refuge for those that are displaced.
Your donations ARE tax-deductible.
Featured image by Sandy Huffaker/Getty Images.