MALIBU—With mass destruction caused by the Woolsey and Hill Fires, the need for aid by civilians who were affected by the fire is growing. A number of fraudulent donation sites have surfaced to try and scam people and take money from them. It is important to know which donation sites are valid and safe.
The Red Cross is accepting donations and volunteers. Cash donations can be made online at the Red Cross website or over the phone at 1-800-RED-CROSS. Texting CALWILDFIRES to 90999 will allow you to make a $10 donation. Volunteer applications can be filled out on the Red Cross website as well.
The Ventura County Community Foundation has established a fund called the Hill Fire/Woolsey Fire Sudden and Urgent Needs Effort to help non-profit organizations that are assisting those who require aid from the damage of the fire. The Ventura County Humane Society is accepting cash and supply donations. Cash donations can be made via their website. They are also opening their doors to provide a safe place for the animals of residents that have been evacuated. The Salvation Army Ventura Corps is welcoming donations to help support their wildfire relief fund.
The United Way of Greater Los Angeles and the Los Angeles County Animal Care Foundation are both accepting donations through their individual websites. The Los Angeles County Animal Care Foundation is welcoming animals who are in need of sanctuary after the fire.
The Los Angeles County Fire Department and the Los Angeles Fire Department are excepting donations as well. Both departments are working to contain the Woolsey and Hill fires.
For additional verification on whether or not a donation site is valid, visit Charity Navigator, a website designed to help with making safe donations. Be aware of following links from unverified sources.
