Astoria, OR – As Southern California grapples with the aftermath of devastating wildfires, many individuals and families have experienced unimaginable loss and hardship. In this time of crisis, Oregon’s Department of Emergency Management is extending its support to the affected communities and providing guidance on how the public can offer meaningful assistance.
Experts agree that financial gifts are the most effective way to help those affected by the wildfires. Cash donations enable disaster response organizations to purchase exactly what is needed, when it’s needed. With these funds, agencies can quickly mobilize resources and provide direct assistance to those in need.
In addition, financial contributions allow organizations to buy supplies in bulk, often at discounted rates, ensuring the most efficient use of donations. Furthermore, by purchasing locally when possible, these organizations help support the economic recovery of the areas hit hardest by the disaster.
To contribute, individuals can visit trusted platforms such as National Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster, which provides a comprehensive list of organizations actively working on the ground.
While the desire to help is strong, it is critical that potential volunteers avoid self-deploying to the wildfire-affected areas. Unplanned volunteers can inadvertently disrupt relief efforts and create logistical challenges for agencies already on the ground.
Instead, those interested in volunteering are encouraged to contact established agencies to coordinate their efforts. Oregon’s Department of Emergency Management recommends calling 2-1-1 or visiting the California Volunteers website to learn about opportunities.
Though donating material items may seem like a helpful way to give, it is important to ensure that donations are both needed and appropriate. Many times, unsolicited donations—such as used clothing or household goods—are not useful in a disaster context and can overwhelm relief operations.
If material donations are being considered, individuals should confirm exactly what is needed, where it is needed, and when before proceeding. Most agencies will provide a list of specific items they are accepting, which can help ensure that contributions are both timely and relevant.
For those looking to get involved beyond traditional donations, organizing a fundraiser or yard sale can be a great way to raise funds for relief efforts. The proceeds from these events can be directed to agencies providing on-the-ground support to wildfire victims.
Additionally, individuals with non-wildfire-related donations—such as clothing or household goods—can consider directing those items to local charitable organizations that can use them in their ongoing missions.
As the situation continues to evolve, individuals can stay up to date on the latest response and recovery needs by visiting the Cal OES News website, which provides regular updates on how best to help and where assistance is most needed.
In a time of crisis, communities across the nation have shown resilience and compassion. By coordinating efforts and directing support to trusted organizations, individuals can make a significant difference in the lives of those affected by the Southern California wildfires.
