An eerie fog blanketed the skies over Southern California last week, giving the sun a muted orange glow as devastating wildfires wreaked havoc across the region.
Amidst the chaos and heartbreak, a powerful sense of unity emerged. All 12 professional sports teams in the Los Angeles area are joining forces to bring relief and hope to those affected by the fires.
Los Angeles Dodgers, Lakers, Rams, Chargers, Kings, Ducks, Galaxy, Clippers, Angels, Sparks, LAFC, Angel City FC unite to donate 8 million to victims and first responders of the devastating wildfires He pledged to donate more than $1,000.
This unprecedented collaboration spans sports and rivalries and instead focuses on a single mission: supporting wildfire victims and first responders risking their lives on the front lines.
The funds will be distributed to organizations providing critical support, including the American Red Cross, Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation, World Central Kitchen, and local animal rescue organizations. In addition to helping humans, these organizations are also rescuing pets and wildlife displaced by the blaze.
In addition to monetary donations, Fanatics stepped in to donate $3 million worth of merchandise to families evacuated from their homes.
Supplies and apparel will be distributed Friday at three main locations: Dodger Stadium, SoFi Stadium and BMO Stadium. To further support this cause, Fanatics is launching a limited edition “LA Strong” clothing line, with proceeds going to the American Red Cross and the Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation.
The fire has been relentless since a spark broke out last Tuesday. The Pacific Palisades fire alone burned more than 23,700 acres, destroyed 5,300 buildings, and claimed at least 25 lives.
Lakers coach JJ Redick, Los Angeles FC forward Carlos Vela and Angel City FC defenseman Ali Riley are among the Los Angeles-based athletes who lost their homes. Clippers star Kawhi Leonard was forced to temporarily leave the team to help his family evacuate.
Meanwhile, the Eaton Fire in Pasadena and Altadena has burned more than 14,117 acres and reduced approximately 7,000 structures to ashes. The death toll continues to rise as firefighters battle near-impossible odds and the National Weather Service forecasts wind gusts of 45 to 70 mph expected to add to the hellish conditions starting this Tuesday. I’m warning you.
The wildfires have disrupted the sports calendar, with the NFL playoff game between the Rams and Minnesota Vikings moved to Arizona, and games between the Kings, Lakers and Clippers postponed last week. But as games resume, the message is clear. These teams aren’t just playing to win, they’re playing for the community.
In particular, the Lakers dedicated Monday’s game against the Spurs to Los Angeles, urging fans to bring necessary supplies to the arena. The energy in the arena before tipoff wasn’t just about basketball. It was about unity, resilience and hope.
“We remain as committed to Los Angeles as we have always been,” Lakers coach JJ Redick said in a heartfelt statement. “We know our community is not alone in being affected by this. We are committed to helping people in any way we can and will continue to do so.”
That commitment is reflected throughout the Los Angeles sports world. Teams, players and fans are doing everything in their power to provide all the support they can. From financial contributions to logistical efforts, the message is clear. The Los Angeles sports community is united in our determination to help Southern California rebuild and recover, embodying Manta Strong Los Angeles.
For those who would like to donate, we are still accepting donations to several organizations working on the front lines providing aid and relief to families and first responders. As the city struggles to recover from the most devastating wildfire season in history, every penny counts.
Here’s how you can help those affected by wildfires.
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