The LA wildfires have taken a disastrous form, leaving hundreds of families displaced with homes burnt all over the city. In the aftermath of such a catastrophe, some brands have stepped ahead to help individuals in this crucial situation.
Starting with food and shelter to free transport, several companies are taking the initiative to provide relief, thus showing how important businesses can become in times of disaster.
Whether offering critical services, donating funds, or offering shelter, all of these firms have taken a step toward supporting victims and first responders. Their work goes on to show how corporate social responsibility can indeed make a difference to the hardest-hit communities affected by the fires.
As the recovery process unfolds, these brands not only offer short-term relief but are committed to helping rebuild the area in the long term as well.
Here's how six leading brands are reaching out to those affected by the LA wildfires.
DoorDash
Even as DoorDash discontinued its operations in parts of the state, like Palisades and Eaton, related to wildfires, they have been active in relief efforts. The food delivery company gave $150,000 in Community Credits, a program that will give nonprofits entry to food as well as other materials through their network. DoorDash also initiated a $250,000 emergency relief grant to benefit those evacuated due to wildfires. Those with at least a number of lifetime delivery points will qualify for grants of up to $1,000. This program will provide short-term financial relief for those affected.
Target
Target has donated $500,000 to regional relief organizations, including the Red Cross, to help people recover from wildfires. The brand has also been opening its doors to provide aid such as bottled water, hygienic materials, and packaged foods to regions affected by wildfires.
Uber
Uber is offering evacuees free rides to emergency shelters, up to $40 through January 15, using the promo code "WILDFIRE25." This program helps save people and enables them to evacuate without getting delayed by high transportation prices due to a natural calamity. Plus, it has committed not to tax the earnings of the drivers for implementing this plan. It highlights how the evacuees benefit through its collaborative effort with local state authorities together with disaster recovery teams.
Walmart
Walmart promised disaster relief funds of $1 million to the wildfire victims. On the other hand, the retail company has opened mobile distribution centers in the areas that have been affected, wherein emergency supplies are given out - including blankets, water, and ready-to-eat meals.
Lyft: Providing free rides for Evacuees
Lyft, the other ride-share giant, has also given free rides to evacuees. This company offers two rides worth up to $25 per ride for as many as 500 people. This ensures that one will have reliable rides in such times of need. Lyft social impact manager Celia Moreno recently stated how the company works to ensure a transportation solution that can be reached on-demand and for whom it may help the most.
Yeastie Boys: Free Bagels for First Responders and Evacuees
LA-based bagel truck Yeastie Boys is distributing free bagels to first responders and evacuees. Such an act of feeding the firefighters and others whose homes are destroyed shows how local businesses help comfort and sustain the people caught up in the whirlwind of this event. It was actively trying to find fire departments and safe zones so that those hard at work fighting the fires could be fed and energized.
The LA wildfires have shed light on the tremendous devastation that occurs in the aftermath of natural disasters. It also underlines the exceptional response of communities and brands, who wish to assist. The spectrum varies from providing free rides and shelter to providing food and assistance for the first responders. Recovery is still an ongoing process, and it will become apparent when these brands intend to assist in rebuilding Los Angeles and commencing recovery operations.