As fires continue to devastate the Los Angeles area, Direct Relief, a California-based disaster relief and medical assistance organization, is providing essential aid to protect residents, support healthcare providers, and address the immediate needs of those affected.
Emergency Medical Aid and Supplies: Direct Relief continues to deliver vital medical supplies and medications to healthcare providers in Los Angeles, including health centers and free clinics. These shipments are tailored to meet the specific needs of patients, such as treatment for chronic diseases, respiratory issues, and wound care.
At the Pasadena Convention Center, for instance, Direct Relief has provided emergency medical supplies to AltaMed Health Services, enabling healthcare workers to treat evacuees for chronic conditions, respiratory complications, and other health concerns.
Free N95 Masks Available at Gap Inc. Stores: In collaboration with Gap Inc., Direct Relief is distributing free N95 masks this week to help protect residents from hazardous wildfire smoke.
Masks are available at select Gap Inc. stores across Los Angeles County, including the following:
- El Segundo – Athleta, The Pointe, 850 S Pacific Coast Highway
- Los Angeles – Banana Republic, The Grove, 189 The Grove Drive
- Pasadena – Banana Republic, Tanner Market, 150 W Colorado Blvd
- Santa Monica – Gap, 1931 Wilshire Blvd
- Burbank – Gap Outlet, 301 N San Fernando Blvd
- Thousand Oaks – Old Navy, 205 N Moorepark Rd
- Whittier – Old Navy, Whittwood Town Center, 15610 Whittwood Ln
More than 20,000 masks have already been delivered to these locations, with additional supplies on the way. Direct Relief has nearly 2 million N95 masks in stock at its Santa Barbara medical warehouse, ensuring ongoing availability for those in need.
Emergency Grants for Clinics: To sustain ongoing care, Direct Relief is providing emergency operating grants to community clinics serving evacuated residents and others impacted by the fires.
Support for Returning Residents: For residents returning to fire-damaged areas, Direct Relief is assembling and distributing protective gear to safeguard their health during cleanup and recovery efforts.
Coordination with Response Agencies: Direct Relief is actively coordinating with state and local agencies, including the California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services, the California Primary Care Association, and the Community Clinic Association of Los Angeles County. This collaboration ensures first responders and safety-net providers have the resources needed for an effective and timely response.
Commitment to Transparency: Direct Relief maintains a strict policy ensuring that 100% of designated contributions for wildfire relief are used exclusively to support the response effort. This commitment honors donor intent and maximizes the impact of every dollar entrusted to Direct Relief.
A Proven Track Record in Wildfire Response: With decades of experience responding to wildfires across California and the U.S., Direct Relief remains dedicated to protecting health and alleviating suffering in the communities it serves. The organization’s comprehensive response combines precision, collaboration, and care to address immediate needs and build resilience for the future.
For more information or to support Direct Relief’s wildfire response efforts, visit https://www.directrelief.org/emergency/california-wildfires/
