On January 7, Palisades fires broke out in California causing devastation across LA communities. At one point there were close to 200,000 people under evacuation orders and that last week’s fires may exceed $20 billion, and total economic losses could reach $50 billion, according to NBC News.
These fires have destroyed entire neighborhoods and blocks, leaving many of the home owners homeless. Many businesses have stepped in to help by providing shelter, food, and other necessary needs.
Planet Fitness has opened its doors allowing for free showers to those affected by the LA fires. They have also opened up their locker rooms, lounges, and spaces with chargers and wifi allowing guests to rest and be cared for.
Planet Fitness says they open their doors to first responders and citizens with no homes as their way to contribute to the California crisis.
Airbnb is also helping by temporarily allowing free stays at their facilities.
The CEO and founder of Airbmb says that Airbnb is committing to help house an additional 25,000 people who have been impacted by the fires, including survivors, evacuees, first responders, and firefighters.
The business is asking for any help they can get by applying to be an Airbnb host or by donating whatever you can to help house those who have lost their homes.
The Anderson Munger Family YMCA in LA’s Koreatown has also stepped into action to provide shelter for the citizens who had to evacuate their homes.
The Anderson Munger Family YMCA has collected food, clothing, assorted snacks for first-responders, and whatever local businesses have been willing to give, according to NPR.
The business world has leaped into action but could still use more support. Donating to organizations during this devastated time is a great and easy way to help the communities in California.