Americares Celebrates Hollywood's Support in Post-Wildfire Recovery Efforts with 'Giving Suites'

Americares Holds 'Giving Suites' During Hollywood Award Season

In a poignant display of solidarity, Americares, a health-focused relief organization, closed out the Hollywood awards season with their 'Giving Suites' initiative. This event was crucial in addressing the ongoing needs of communities affected by the recent wildfires in Los Angeles. Partnering once again with GBK Brand Bar, a well-known event company, Americares sought to utilize the star-studded atmosphere of the awards season to draw attention to a pressing humanitarian crisis.

Celebrity Involvement

During the Grammy and Critics Choice Awards events in early February, a multitude of celebrities aligned with Americares’ mission. Stars including Angela Bassett, Viola Davis, and Whoopi Goldberg rolled up their sleeves alongside Americares volunteers, creating a remarkable impact by assembling approximately 1,400 emergency kits and 1,000 go-bags. These kits are vital for residents grappling with the aftermath of the wildfires, which, although no longer raging, have left lasting damage on lives and health.

Provash Budden, Americares deputy senior vice president of emergency programs, highlighted the critical phase of recovery: "While the wildfires are no longer ravaging the city, their long-term effects are becoming clearer. This is exactly when Americares work is most critical." He emphasized that both the physical devastation and the health repercussions are deeply concerning, underscoring Americares’ commitment to aiding the recovery process.

Ongoing Assistance and Contributions

To date, Americares has made notable strides in response to the wildfires, distributing an impressive seven tons of medicine and relief supplies, along with over 10,000 masks. Furthermore, they have allocated $260,000 in emergency funding to support local clinics, and provided $600,000 in cash assistance to low-income wildfire survivors who have lost homes, jobs, or transportation.

Support has poured in from various quarters, including significant contributions from companies like Patagonia and FanDuel, who joined efforts in assembling the emergency kits. Products from Rest® were also included, further enhancing the kits provided to those in need.

“It has been inspiring to see how the entertainment industry has come together in their continued support of the neighborhoods devastated by the wildfires, and uplift an exceptional charity partner, Americares,” reflected Gavin Keilly, founder and CEO of GBK Brand Bar.

Americares' Global Commitment

Americares is not only dedicated to responding to local disasters but also addresses more than 35 natural disasters and humanitarian crises globally each year. The organization is known for establishing long-term recovery projects and implementing preparedness initiatives in communities vulnerable to such crises. They remain on the ground in Los Angeles to ensure continued access to health services for those still feeling the impacts of the wildfires.

For more information on Americares and their ongoing efforts, visit americares.org.

Conclusion

As Hollywood celebrities lend their hands to the noble cause of recovery, Americares reinforces its significant role in disaster response and community health access. The 'Giving Suites' initiative exemplifies the beautiful intersection of philanthropy and celebrity, waiting to inspire others to contribute to meaningful causes worldwide.