EMERGENCY RESPONSE: SUPPORTING LOS ANGELES WILDFIRE RELIEF EFFORTS

Veterans in Media Entertainment, a non-profit focused on increased Veteran representation in the entertainment industry, organized hundreds of their members to collect and organize donations, prepare and deliver food, and to a safe space to impacted community members. Photo taken at the Hollywood American Legion Post 43.

The new year started off on a somber note as dangerous wildfires spread rapidly across the greater Los Angeles area. An estimated 200,000 people, including our own colleagues and local partners, experienced the fires’ devastation firsthand. Because of the complex weather conditions and the scope of the spread, it took nearly three weeks for the  fires to be fully extinguished. The January fires destroyed homes and businesses, caused the loss of life, and forever changed the community. 

As a proud LA community member, 4S Bay’s Managing Partner, Jessica Sarowitz, was determined to support the emergency response.

We focused our support on non-profits that were providing critical on the ground relief, including: The American Red Cross, The Archdiocese of Los Angeles, Baby2Baby, The Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation and Veterans in Media & Entertainment. These first responders led search and rescue operations, provided immediate emergency services and supplies, and offered safe places for those impacted by the fires.

4S Bay sends its heartfelt admiration and appreciation to all the first responders, community leaders, and residents who ensured that LA community members were taken care of and protected during this crisis.

While the danger from the fire is gone for now, the need for community support and solidarity is stronger than ever. Our commitment to a thriving LA runs deep and we will continue to work alongside the community as they reimagine, rebuild, and heal Los Angeles.

Additional Resources:

The American Red Cross: Distributing relief supplies including food, water, masks, protective body suits, gloves, clean-up kits, tarps, snacks and information about financial assistance.

The Archdiocese of Los Angeles: Distributing monetary aid as well as food, clothing, and hygiene kits via the Society of St. Vincent de Paul Los Angeles.

Baby2Baby: Distributing critical items for children including diapers, clothing and formula.

Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation: Covers the cost of essential tools and safety equipment for firefighters as well as mental health support.

Veterans in Media & Entertainment: Providing immediate emergency response volunteers and rescue assistance.

California Government LA Wildfire Assistance: Recovery Services Finder.

LA County & FEMA Disaster Assistance: How to apply for FEMA Assistance.