Here's How to Help California Recover from the Devastating Fires

From Northern California wine country down to Los Angeles County, California has suffered from dramatic and devastating wildfires that have calimed thousands of acres of wildlife, at least 5,700 homes, and claimed 40 lives. During the holiday season it's imporant that we find ways to help those in so much need, particularly those who won't be spending the holidays at home.

Here are some ways to help California recover: 

1) Text UWVC to 41444 to make a cash donation, call 805-485-6288, or go online to United Way of Ventura County's website. Checks with "Thomas Fire Fund" in the memo line can be mailed to 702 County Square Drive, Suite 100 Ventura, CA 93003.

2) Donate through Google. The Internet giant provides donation services to help you direct your funds for effective local impact. Just Google "Southern California Fires Donate" and scroll down. 

3) The Humane Society of Ventura County is requesting donations ot purchase food for displaced horses, burrows for alpacas. While the Los Angeles County Animal Care Foundation is accepting donations to help provide needed supplies for first responders rescuing animals. 

3) Community Foundation Sonoma County has launched the Sonoma County Resilience Fund to address the mid to long-term needs of our community. While we cannot yet predict what the greatest needs will be, in other communities recovery efforts have included basic needs as well as longer term economic, health and social supports. Examples have included support for renters, case management services, animal welfare and capacity-building for nonprofits taking on new or expanded roles in disaster relief.

4) Buy Wine. Really. By purchasing your favorite wines in both grocery stores and restaurants you are directly generating funds that will help our winemakers and vintners rebuild their businesses and continue to employ those who work in vineyards, tasting rooms, hotels and restaurants, to rebuild their lives in wine country, those who have whole heartedly supported our LGBTQ community.

5) Travel! Get inspiration from Brandon Presser's trip exploring Route 1 that weaves through majestic forests, ocean views, and quaint towns that could use your tourist dolars.