As firefighters begin to contain the wildfires and residents and officials start assessing the damages, one thing is clear: recovery from this event is only just beginning, and cleanup and rebuilding efforts will very likely spread into the months and years ahead.
How to help now
Fidelity Charitable, an independent public charity, has collaborated with the Center for Disaster Philanthropy to provide the following list of organizations providing relief services for the California wildfiresi . These organizations are highlighted because they have existing operations or chapters in the region, the ability to incorporate a large influx of donations, and a strong, established record of excellence in disaster relief services.
Following a natural disaster, there can be an increased risk of fraud committed by individuals preying upon the good intentions of people wanting to help; donors should take care that the organizations they are supporting are legitimate. Fidelity Charitable makes grants only to IRS-qualified 501(c)(3) public charities, such as the organizations below.
Medical relief
Direct Relief
TIN: 951831116
27 South La Patera Lane
Goleta, CA 93117
Food aid
Feeding America
TIN: 363673599
P.O. Box 96749
Washington, DC 20090-6749
Housing and rebuilding
Habitat for Humanity
TIN: 911914868
121 Habitat St
Americus, GA 31709-3423
Shelter and emergency supplies
American National Red Cross
TIN: 530196605
P.O. Box 37243
Washington, DC 20013