In response to the devastating wildfires sweeping through Los Angeles County, SAG-AFTRA has announced a $1 million relief fund to support union members impacted by the disaster.
Union president Fran Drescher expressed deep sympathy in a statement, saying, “The destruction caused by these blazes, the loss of life and homes, has been gut-wrenching to experience. Our hearts go out to all affected. We knew we could do more, and we hope this pledge helps alleviate suffering and assists those impacted in rebuilding their lives after this calamity.”
Since Tuesday, fierce wildfires fueled by high winds have scorched tens of thousands of acres across the Los Angeles area. The Pacific Palisades neighborhood and the unincorporated community of Altadena have been among the hardest-hit regions, with over 10,000 structures burned and thousands of residents forced to evacuate.
Some of SAG-AFTRA’s well-known members, including Mandy Moore, Paris Hilton, Jeff Bridges, and Milo Ventimiglia, are among those affected.
National Executive Director Duncan Crabtree-Ireland emphasized the union’s commitment to its members during crises, stating, “The very essence of a labor union is solidarity. We work to elevate each other in stable times and support each other during moments of crisis. The devastation is hard to fathom, even for those living through it. We’re fortunate to have the SAG-AFTRA Foundation as a resource for members in need.”
He also encouraged unaffected members to contribute by volunteering, donating, or assisting peers who have suffered significant losses.
SAG-AFTRA’s Wilshire Boulevard offices have been temporarily closed as a safety precaution due to the fires. The organization joins a growing list of entities stepping up to provide aid in the wake of the disaster:
- Disney has pledged $15 million to relief organizations, including the American Red Cross and the Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation.
- The CAA Foundation has partnered with Sean Penn’s CORE and the Los Angeles Unified School District Education Foundation to establish a fund supporting those affected.
- Local dining institutions like Din Tai Fung, Jitlada, and Spago have also committed to relief efforts.
As relief initiatives ramp up and the full extent of the damage becomes clearer, the entertainment industry and local communities continue to rally together, showcasing resilience and solidarity in the face of overwhelming adversity.