Friends,
Seeing the devastation happening in my hometown of Los Angeles is heartbreaking. I thank those of you who have reached out to ask about my family and friends.
As you can imagine there are a number of organizations helping families impacted by the wildfires. You can help support relief efforts by donating to a few listed below.
I found out yesterday that two of my high school friends were able to escape the fires, but their home is now ashes. If you are willing, I have also included a link to their GoFundMe to help them get back on their feet.
World Central Kitchen: At the height of the pandemic, World Central Kitchen came to Alexandria to distribute hot meals at William Ramsay Elementary and Four Mile Run Park in Arlandria/Chirilagua. I was glad to volunteer at our food distributions and support these efforts. Let’s return the favor, donate to World Central Kitchen here.
American Red Cross: Visit redcross.org to donate to American Red Cross wildfire relief efforts.
LA Strong: Fanatics has partnered with LA sports organizations, including the LA28 Olympics, to design a #LAStrong collection to help impacted communities. Proceeds will be donated to the American Red Cross and LA Fire Department Foundation. You can search the collection here.
Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation: Visit supportlafd.org to help firefighters battling the wildfires.
Latino Community Foundation: Led by former HUD Secretary Julián Castro, Latino Community Foundation (LCF) supports Latino-led programs and organizations in California. Visit latinocf.org to donate to LCF’s California Wildfire Relief Fund. Additionally, LCF's Latino Capital Accelerator partner Inclusive Action for the City has set up a fundraiser to provide direct cash assistance for impacted outdoor workers, donate here.
California Community Foundation: The California Community Foundation works to ensure resources reach those most in need by leveraging partnerships with community-based organizations and government agencies. Visit calfund.org to donate to the California Community Foundation’s Wildfire Recovery Fund.
GoFundMe: My childhood friend Jeff, his wife Linda and their two kids lost their home in Altadena. Please consider donating to their GoFundMe here to help them rebuild their lives.
Thank you for your support,
-Canek
