The recent wildfires in Los Angeles have left a path of heartbreak and destruction, displacing families, destroying homes, and impacting lives in unimaginable ways. As I have been following it on the news, my heart is breaking as I watch the fires destroy entire communities, leaving families and just as often family pets, lost and frightened. For those of us who live far away, like myself, the devastation can feel overwhelming, leaving us wondering how we can help. Here are a few practical steps to help those affected and to manage our emotions that come when witnessing such tragedies.
Ways to Help from Afar
Donate to Relief Organizations: Many organizations are on the ground providing immediate relief. Groups like the Red Cross, California Community Foundation Wildfire Relief Fund, and World Central Kitchen are excellent options. Animal shelters are overrun with lost and displaced family pets, some of whom have been injured. Financial contributions can help provide food, shelter, and support to those affected. There are lists of of these organizations online.
Support Local Firefighters: Consider donating to firefighter foundations or purchasing items from their registries. These men and women are risking their lives daily and often need additional supplies.
Spread Awareness: Use your social media platforms to share information about trusted relief efforts. Raising awareness can encourage others to donate or provide assistance.
Offer Remote Support: Post words of encouragement to first responders or displaced families online. Some organizations coordinate such initiatives, which can at least offer emotional support and relief to those affected.
Participate in Fundraisers: Join or organize virtual events, such as a clothing drive, or a Gofundme page, to help those affected.
Offer Services: If you have expertise in a certain area, there may be a way to donate these services virtually. Mental health professionals, financial professionals and insurance professionals could provide support and direction to those most affected.
Managing Your Own Feelings
Watching this kind of suffering, even from afar, can evoke feelings of sadness, helplessness, or even guilt. Here’s how you can process those emotions:
Acknowledge Your Feelings: It’s okay to feel upset or overwhelmed. These emotions are a natural response to a heartbreaking situation.
Channel Empathy into Action: Taking steps to help, even the smallest ones, can give you a sense of purpose and reduce feelings of helplessness.
Limit Media Exposure: While staying informed is important, constant exposure to distressing news can heighten anxiety and other emotions. Set boundaries on how much time you spend consuming news.
Engage in Self-Care: Activities like meditation, exercise, or talking to a trusted friend can help you process emotions and find balance.
Your compassion and willingness to act, even from far away, can make a difference. All of us can support those affected in some way and remind them that they are not alone.