How to support those affected by fires in Los Angeles County

Communities across Los Angeles County are surveying the aftermath of four days of wildfires that have damaged or destroyed more than 12,000 structures and claimed at least 11 lives, a number expected to rise according to Los Angeles law enforcement sources cited by the Los Angeles Times.

As emergency responders work to contain the flames, 150,000 people remain under mandatory evacuation orders as of Friday. Local organizations are stepping up to support those affected by the disaster. Here’s where you can drop off donations in Redlands this weekend or make monetary contributions.

• Slow Bloom Coffee Co-op (420 W. Colton Ave.) is hosting a donation drive on Jan. 10 and 11 to collect essential items for wildfire victims. In addition, Slow Bloom said it will donate 100% of its retail coffee bag sales to help those affected by the fires. In a post on social media, community members are encouraged to drop off the following items:
  • Water
  • Shelf-stable food
  • Pet food
  • Undergarments and socks
  • Clothing and shoes
  • Blankets and sleeping pads
  • First aid kits
  • Feminine hygiene products
  • General toiletries
  • Portable chargers
  • N95 masks
  • Gloves
  • Towels
• Olive Avenue Market (530 W. Olive Ave.) is also collecting donations through the weekend. In a post on social media, the market announced that all items gathered will be delivered to the K-town YMCA in Los Angeles on Monday, where they will be distributed to those in need. Items requested include:
  • Clothing
  • Water
  • Protein bars
  • Blankets
  • Hygiene products
  • Single-use utensils
  • Zip-lock bags
  • Pet food
• The local non-profit Stronger Together Now is accepting donations on behalf of YMCA LA and the Los Angeles community. Donations will be collected at Downtown San Bernardino’s Studio D (330 N. D Street, Suite 506) between 9 a.m. and 12 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 11.
  • Water
  • Nonperishable food
  • Flashlights and batteries
  • Toiletries and hygiene items
  • Blankets and towels
• University of Redlands Wildfire Emergency Relief is accepting financial donations to help provide food and safe shelter for the Redlands and Woodbury students, faculty, staff and their families affected by the wildfires. More information here.

Community members can also support wildfire relief efforts by donating to the American Red Cross, the California Community Foundation’s Wildfire Relief Fund, the Canine Rescue Club or other options outlined by the Los Angeles Times.

These organizations are on the ground providing meals, temporary housing, and medical care to those impacted by the fires.

How to help those affected by fires raging across Los Angeles County

Those looking to assist residents affected by the Los Angeles County firestorm have a number of options to donate money, materials or their time.

Los Angeles TimesKaren Garcia

To add a local donation center or drive to this list email news@communityforwardredlands.com