UNIVERSITY BULLETINS | Donations and fundraising are the most effective assistance the LMU community can provide at this time in regards to fire relief efforts in Australia. It is best that you make monetary contributions, no matter how small, so that agencies on the ground can use these funds to meet the needs of the victims of the fires in the most effective way possible.
The following agencies are on the ground and are already providing aid to fire victims:
- The Australian Red Cross is accepting donations to its Disaster Relief and Recovery Fund, which has helped to send 1,285 staff members and volunteers to communities affected by the fires and to provide support to displaced people sheltering in more than 69 evacuation and recovery centers. The Red Cross also provides emergency grants to help people cover their immediate needs.
- The Salvation Army advises donors to send money instead of goods because of the logistical difficulties of storing and distributing goods in areas affected by disasters. Donations are funneled to various forms of assistance, including mental health support and housing.
- St. Vincent de Paul Society is a lay Catholic organization has more than 60,000 members and volunteers who assist people in need across Australia. Its bush fire appeal designates how far specific financial amounts can go, and brings home the reality of how the disaster has upended the lives of the dispossessed: $50 (about $35 American dollars) can provide food for a displaced family; $150 can help stave off bills; and $300 can help clothe a fleeing family that had to leave behind their belongings.
- WIRES is an organization that is committed to rescuing and rehabilitating wildlife rescue in Australia. So many animals have already perished in the fires, but there are survivors who need our help. This organization states on its site that “with the fires destroying unprecedented amounts of habitat, food shortages have increased and lack of suitable habitat will be a significant long-term challenge for surviving wildlife.” Donate to Wires here.
- Vets Beyond Borders is delivering life-saving medical care to animals affected by the Australia bushfires. You can donate here.
If you would like to work on a fundraising event or for more information, please contact Alyssa Perez in the Center for Service and Action at Alyssa.Perez@lmu.edu
