Currently, Los Angeles County is being struck by devastating wildfires, marking a new tragic chapter in an ongoing worrying trend. Indeed, California has experienced several consecutive years of large-scale wildfires. These new fires, which broke out in critical areas across both the northern and southern parts of the state, are among the most severe ever recorded on the American continent.
Within just a few days, thousands of hectares have been ravaged by flames, leading to mass evacuations and widespread destruction. More than 12,000 homes, buildings, and structures have been destroyed to date, while 1,400 fire trucks, 80 aircraft, and 14,000 persons have been mobilised to combat these fires, which remain uncontrolled.
The Audemars Piguet Foundations, deeply supportive of the impacted communities, have decided to provide USD 550,000 in financial assistance to the Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation (LAFDF), the California Fire Foundation (CFF), and the Disaster Relief programme of the Baby2Baby organisation.
The emergency aid allocated to the LAFDF will contribute to the purchase of tools, equipment, and safety gear essential for firefighter operations. The organisation, which works closely with the Los Angeles Fire Department, continuously assesses the situation in order to adapt its interventions to evolving needs and the progress of field operations.
Meanwhile, the CFF will use the Foundations’ donation to distribute gift cards to fire victims, allowing them to purchase essential goods or secure temporary shelter. These cards will be distributed by partner fire stations, located closest to the affected local communities.
Finally, the Foundations’ contribution to the Baby2Baby organisation will be allocated to its programme aimed at addressing the basic needs of families affected by natural disasters. The funds will be used to purchase essential items for children and families impacted by the fires, as well as supplies and food for the shelters and distribution points spread throughout Los Angeles in relation to this catastrophe.
