The United Way set up a Southern California Disaster Relief Fund Friday to support long-term recovery from the Hill and Woolsey wildfires for low-income individuals and families.
Relief funds will assist fire victims in re-establishing their lives, and the fund will be updated as needed to include individuals and families in other affected areas, according to the nonprofit.
The fund -- created by the United Way of Greater Los Angeles in partnership with United Way of Ventura County and United Ways of California -- can be accessed via the United Way of Greater Los Angeles website.
"For low-income individuals and families, a wildfire can mean the difference between staying housed and becoming homeless. Affected families need support to rebuild their lives, and we are proud to help give them a lifeline in this critical time,'' said Elise Buik, president and CEO of United Way of Greater Los Angeles.
United Way of Greater Los Angeles and Ventura County will work collaboratively to identify and vet organizations best positioned to serve those who are most in need, and United Way of Greater Los Angeles will distribute the funds, according to Buik.
Any additional major blazes in Southern California would be added to the Disaster Relief Fund as need dictates. Updates will be posted at https://www.unitedwayla.org/en/give/disaster-relief-fund/.
In addition, immediate donations can be made directly to those impacted in Ventura County by texting UWVC to 41444. Check the text link for processing details.
Last year, United Way of Greater Los Angeles worked with United Ways across Southern California to provide relief for victims of devastating fires and mudslides, raising more than $800,000.
