LOS ANGELES: As multiple wildfires continue to ravage Southern California, leaving devastation in their wake, several Indian American organisations have mobilised to provide critical aid to the affected communities. Those who have been actively reaching out to the public are:
Jain Center, Buena Park: The Jain Center of Southern California (JCSC) said it was launching a “Seva in Action” initiative along with like-minded organizations such as the Shreeji Mandir Belflower, and other groups to provide much-needed support to those impacted. The center also called for clothing, food items and bedding donations. To receive help and to render help call: 714-742-2304.
Pasadena Hindu Temple: The temple is providing food and assistance to evacuees and individuals facing power outages. For meals or additional support, individuals can visit the temple or contact Pandit Ji via WhatsApp at 626-679-8777.
United Sikhs: In collaboration with local Gurdwaras, United Sikhs is delivering essential aid to families displaced by the fires. For assistance, individuals can call +1-855-US-UMEED.
Also, Uber is offering free rides worth $40 to evacuees.
LA 211, in partnership with Airbnb, is offering free housing for up to one week to evacuees, including those from the Palisades area. Meanwhile, other institutions in the area have been forced to close in badly hit areas like Malibu.
Experts from AccuWeather estimate the economic toll could range from $135 billion to $150 billion, making these wildfires potentially the costliest natural disaster in US history. Historic buildings have been destroyed, and the Pacific Palisades neighborhood has lost 75% of its homes.
Nearly 35,000 acres have been consumed by the fires, claiming at least 24 lives and destroying hundreds of homes. More than 180,000 residents have been forced to evacuate.
