How Malibu Businesses Are Leading the Way in Wildfire Recovery:
“It has been unreal hearing the stories of tragedy and courage that have been told to us by our wine club members, customers, friends and family that have been affected,” says Angeleno co-owner Jasper Dickson. “One of our longest standing customers told me the heroic story of how her husband, two sons, father and brother fought to save their local high school from burning down and actually succeeded.”
Ways to Contribute and Support
The wildfires in Malibu and the Palisades have had a devastating impact on local communities and businesses. Many Malibu residents and business owners have experienced significant losses, but the spirit of resilience has been palpable as individuals and organisations unite to help rebuild. If you’re looking to support Malibu wildfire recovery efforts, we list 10 ways you can help:
1. Direct Donations to Local Businesses
A significant number of Malibu businesses have set up their own fundraising initiatives to assist with recovery efforts. By donating directly through their websites or social media links, you can help provide financial support for the businesses that are working to rebuild. If you know of specific businesses affected by the Malibu wildfire, check their websites or social media pages for details on donation opportunities or recovery funds.
2. GoFundMe Campaigns for Malibu Fire Recovery
Many Malibu and Palisades business owners have created GoFundMe campaigns to support rebuilding efforts and to cover immediate expenses. These crowdfunding efforts are often a lifeline for small businesses in the aftermath of the fires. You can search for these campaigns using keywords like “Malibu Fire Recovery” or “Palisades Fire Fund” on GoFundMe to find ways to contribute.
3. Local Nonprofit Organisations Supporting Fire Recovery
Several nonprofits are working tirelessly to assist both residents and businesses affected by the wildfires to provide resources for recovery. Key organisations include:
- Malibu Foundation: Actively supporting Malibu residents and businesses post-fire, with a variety of fundraising campaigns designed to help the community recover.
- Los Angeles Fire Relief Fund: This fund supports both individuals and businesses throughout the broader Los Angeles area impacted by wildfires.
- The Malibu Community Foundation: Focused on disaster relief, including the rebuilding of businesses in Malibu and neighbouring areas.
4. Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation (LAFD Foundation)
The LAFD Foundation provides critical support to the fire department, but it also plays an essential role in recovery efforts following large-scale disasters like wildfires. Donations to the LAFD Foundation help fund fire-fighting equipment, training, and outreach efforts, which are vital for both immediate response and long-term recovery.
5. Support Local Events and Fundraisers
In addition to direct donations, supporting local events can significantly aid in the recovery process. Charity events, benefit concerts, auctions, and festivals often serve as vital fundraising opportunities for businesses in Malibu and Palisades. Look for community-driven events designed to raise funds for fire victims and affected businesses.
6. Volunteer Your Time or Services
If you’re local or able to travel to Malibu, volunteering your time and services can make a significant difference. Many businesses need help with clean-up efforts, rebuilding, or re-establishing their operations. Local volunteer organisations are often coordinating relief efforts, and your time can be an invaluable asset to these recovery initiatives.
7. Support Through Purchasing or Gift Cards
If direct donations aren’t possible, purchasing gift cards or products online is another way to help businesses. Even if a business isn’t fully operational yet due to damage, purchasing a gift card or pre-ordering products provides them with immediate financial relief. Many Malibu businesses, including wineries, are offering these options to help support their recovery.
8. Chamber of Commerce Support
Both the Malibu Chamber of Commerce and Pacific Palisades Chamber of Commerce have been integral in the recovery process, often leading fundraising drives and donation efforts for local businesses. You can donate directly through their websites or inquire about their ongoing initiatives aimed at helping the Malibu business community recover.
9. Corporate Donations and Matching Gifts
If you work for a company with a corporate giving program, check if they will match your donations to fire recovery funds or Malibu wildfire relief efforts. Many companies offer matching donations as part of their corporate social responsibility programs, making it easier for you to amplify your support.
10. Social Media Support
Even if you can’t donate financially, spreading awareness is incredibly valuable. Share posts about local businesses affected by the Malibu wildfires, tag businesses in social media posts, and use relevant hashtags like #MalibuFireRecovery and #PalisadesRebuild to help raise visibility and encourage others to lend a hand.
Stay Updated on Recovery Efforts
To stay informed about Malibu wildfire recovery, consider following local news outlets like the LA Times, KTLA, or NBC LA. Additionally, social media is a great resource for tracking specific businesses or people you want to support. Joining local community groups on Facebook or Nextdoor can also provide valuable updates on recovery efforts and ways to get involved.
How Malibu Wineries Are Leading in Wildfire Recovery
The wildfires in Malibu and Palisades have also severely affected the area’s wineries, which are a central part of the region’s identity and economy. However, these businesses have shown incredible leadership in organising community events and providing direct support for rebuilding.
Malibu wineries have become more than just wine producers; they are community leaders working to rebuild and support residents and businesses affected by the fires.
Charity Events and Fundraisers by Malibu Wineries
Many Malibu wineries have hosted charity events like wine tastings, concerts, and auctions to raise funds for Malibu wildfire victims. These events allow the community to gather, support local businesses, and raise funds for fire relief. For example:
- Malibu Family Wines has hosted several fundraising events, where guests could enjoy wine while contributing to fire relief efforts.
- Cielo Farms has donated a portion of their wine sales to support the restoration of local businesses.
Direct Donations and Fundraising Campaigns
Several wineries, including Rosenthal Malibu Estate Wines and Malibu Rocky Oaks Vineyard & Winery, have committed portions of their sales to fire recovery. These efforts help provide immediate financial relief to business owners, employees, and residents in the area.
Rosenthal Malibu Estate Wines, for example, has directed a percentage of their sales to local fire recovery initiatives, aiming to help rebuild the local economy and support struggling business owners.
Wine Sales and Gift Cards
For wineries struggling to stay operational due to fire damage, purchasing gift cards or wine online is a practical way to provide support. The Malibu Vineyards has launched limited-edition wine bottles with proceeds going to fire recovery, while Cornell Winery & Tasting Room offers gift cards and pre-orders, offering immediate financial assistance during the rebuilding process.
Support for Local Artists and Creators
Malibu wineries have also used their venues to support local artists who have been impacted by the wildfires. Lunaria Wine, for example, hosted an art auction in collaboration with local artists, where a percentage of sales from both wine and art was donated to the Malibu Fire Relief Fund.
Malibu Wineries Are Core to the Community
Beyond their business contributions, Malibu wineries have long been vital to the community’s cultural and economic fabric. By providing jobs, supporting local agriculture, and hosting community events, these wineries are crucial to the long-term recovery of Malibu.
For more information on supporting Malibu wineries or upcoming charity events, visit the websites of Malibu Rocky Oaks, Malibu Vineyards, Rosenthal Malibu Estate Wines, and Cielo Farms. Together, we can help rebuild Malibu and restore the spirit of its iconic wine country.
WineEnthusiast – Contributing LIVE –
