Helping the Victims of the California Wild Fires

The fires that have raged in Southern California are nearly all put out now, and the national media is turning its attention elsewhere. But although life is moving on for the rest of the country, the hardships for those personally affected by the wildfires is only just beginning.

Let us not forget those who have lost so much in this terrible disaster simply because the news media has stopped reminding us. For those who are financially able, please consider donating to one of the many nonprofit organizations which are assisting those who saw their homes and belongings consumed by fire.

Planet Chiropractic has a list of some of the reputable organizations which are accepting donations related to the California wildfires.

California Volunteers
This is the state agency that manages programs and initiatives to increase the number of Californians involved with service and volunteering.
If your business would like to make a donation to help the victims of the Southern California fires please call: 1-800-750-2858
www.californiavolunteers.org

The Red Cross
According to the organization, monetary donations are needed most. If you're sending checks they can be designated to "California Fires."
American Red Cross, PO Box 4002018, Des Moines, IA, 50340-2018
www.redcross.org

The Salvation Army
Contributions can be made on-line at www.salvationarmyusa.org, by phone at (800) 725-2769.

Wells Fargo Bank
Wells Fargo has opened a special account called the "American Red Cross Disaster Relief Fund (California Wildfire Relief Effort)" to help the fire victims. Make a donation at any branch, located throughout the Midwestern and Western United States.
Locate a Wells Fargo Bank

Operation USA
This is a Los Angeles-based nongovernmental relief organization that is providing medical supplies and assisting victims who do not have direct access to support services, including farmworkers and people in rural areas. Checks can be sent to: Operation USA, 3617 Hayden Ave., Suite A, Culver City, CA 90232
Credit card donations can be made by calling (800) 678-7255 or via the web site at: www.opusa.org.

There are also many excellent faith-based organizations which I would recommend, including the aforementioned Salvation Army,  Catholic Charities USA, Samaritan’s Purse, and Operation Blessing International.

For those who desire to give yet have qualms about where your dollars will end up, Charity Navigator has some tips to ensure that your money makes it to those who are suffering.

And above all, regardless of whether or not you choose to help financially, please pray for the wildfire victims. Some who are irreligious express contempt at the notion that praying serves a useful purpose, but I know for a fact that it does. Even though our human minds may never understand why tragedies like this happen, this I know: God is faithful, and He will give comfort and aid to those who call out to Him.

Tags: October 2007 California Wildfires • Southern California • Wildfire • Disaster • News Media • Donation • Nonprofit Organization • Volunteer • American Red Cross • Salvation Army • Wells Fargo Bank • Operation USA • Los Angeles • Faith-based Organization • Charity • Catholic Charities • Samaritan’s Purse • Operation Blessing International • Charity Navigator • Finances • Prayer • God