Supporting Our Community in the Wake of the California Wildfires

wildfires

As the devastating wildfires continue to impact California, our hearts are with everyone affected – our customers, friends, family, and the countless communities facing loss and uncertainty. At rareESSENCE, we are deeply committed to standing with you during this challenging time and offering ways to make a difference for those in need.

As the co-founder of rareESSENCE, Los Angeles has always had a warm spot in my heart. I lived in there in the early 90’s and two of my sons and their families currently live in LA County and the communities affected by the fire. I happened to be visiting my family from January 3rd to the 8th  to celebrate my youngest granddaughter, Hana’s 3rd birthday on January 7th. We spent the weekend touring the Getty Museum, walking along the ocean in Santa Monica and visting the beautiful Huntington Botanical Gardens in Pasedena.

On Tuesday, we arrived early for the birthday festivities and had a wonderful day celebrating. But as we sat eating dinner we began to get warnings on our phones as the fires started. We tuned into the local TV news reports and the fires grew from a100 acres to 600 to over 1200 acres in a very short period it was clear this was not slowing down.  I walked outside my son’s house and saw the red glow from the direction of the Pacific Palisades and we grew concerned. We thought we should see if we could determine if it was heading in our direction, so my son Joe and  I drove to the top of the canyon near a private Catholic university. The winds were incredible, like no other Santa Anna wind I had ever experienced. We could see the fires raging just a mile or so away and it was terrifying. We hustled back down to the house and packed up our cars with a few necessities and prepared to leave.

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Fortunately, the amazing fire crews held the fire back from the neighborhood, but as we soon found out, so many others were not as fortunate. It was so hard to leave the Los Angeles on the 8th, but once I knew our family was safe, I departed for Minnesota, stayed in close contact with family and friends there and monitored the fires through a wonderful free app called Watch Duty: Wildfire Maps you can load on your phone. I highly recommend it for anyone who lives in California or anywhere wildfires are of concern.

These fires remind us of the resilience of the human spirit, but they also call for collective action. If you’re looking for ways to help, here are some trusted organizations and resources making a meaningful impact:

 

 

 

 

 

Donate to Trusted Relief Organizations

world central kitchen

 World Central Kitchen: Providing hot meals to first responders and displaced families, World Central Kitchen has been on the frontlines of disaster relief. Your support ensures they can continue delivering nourishment and hope.
Donate to World Central Kitchen

California Community Foundation

California Philanthropy: For a safe and efficient way to contribute to wildfire recovery, the California Community Foundation Wildfire Relief Fund is a trusted resource. They direct funds to immediate and long-term recovery efforts across affected regions.
Donate to California Philanthropy

 

Animal Shelters and SPCA: The fires have left countless pets and wildlife in desperate need of rescue and care. Consider donating to local organizations like the SPCA Los Angeles or any humane shelters in the area to support their lifesaving efforts.

 

Volunteer Your Time

The LA Times has compiled a comprehensive list of ways to volunteer or donate items to those impacted by the fires. Whether it’s offering housing, supplies, or services, your contribution can make a world of difference.
Find Volunteer Opportunities via the LA Times

 

Other Ways to Help

  • Check on Your Neighbors: Reach out to those around you who may need support, particularly the elderly or families with young children.
  • Spread Awareness: Share these resources with your friends and networks to amplify their reach.
  • Support Small Businesses: Many local businesses are struggling due to the fires. Consider buying from or donating to affected businesses to help them recover.

 

At rareESSENCE, we’re more than just a company; we’re a community. Our thoughts and prayers are with everyone impacted by these wildfires. Let’s come together to support one another and help rebuild lives with compassion and love.

Thank you for standing with us and the communities in need.

Warmly,
The rareESSENCE Team