Prominent figures such as Beyonce, Eva Longoria, and Jamie Lee Curtis have committed funds to assist families impacted by the recent fires in Los Angeles, alongside Paris Hilton, who has also suffered the loss of her residence.
The infernos that ignited in the Pacific Palisades and additional locales throughout the county last week have devastated thousands of homes and claimed a minimum of 24 lives.
Reality television star and entrepreneur Hilton has initiated an emergency fund to aid families who have been uprooted, beginning with a personal contribution of $100,000 (£82,000).
The 43-year-old, who witnessed her Malibu home “turn to ashes” as the fires were broadcasted live, is also dedicating time to animal welfare organizations. She shared on social media that she is currently fostering a dog whose owners were displaced from their home.
“While I’ve lost my home in Malibu, my heart goes out to the countless families who have endured much greater losses – their homes, treasured belongings, the communities they cherished, and their sense of security,” Hilton remarked in a statement on social media.
Beyonce donated $2.5 million to a newly established LA Fire Relief Fund, initiated by her philanthropic organization, BeyGOOD.
“The fund is designated to assist families in the Altadena/Pasadena vicinity who have lost their homes, as well as to support churches and community centers to meet the immediate needs of those impacted by the wildfires,” the organization disclosed in a statement.
Beyonce’s mother, Tina Knowles, lost her bungalow in Malibu due to the fires.
“It was my beloved space, my sanctuary, my joyful retreat,” she expressed on Instagram. “Now it has been reduced to ashes. God bless all the courageous men and women in our fire department who risk their lives in perilous conditions.”
Other celebrities who have offered financial support comprise Desperate Housewives actress Longoria and her foundation, the Screen Actors Guild, the Recording Academy, which oversees the Grammys, and Oscar-winning actress Jamie Lee Curtis along with her family – all of whom have each committed $1 million (£819,000).
Prince Harry and Meghan are reported to have given clothing, children’s items, and other essential supplies, and were observed making a surprise visit to distribute food to evacuees in Pasadena.
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Actors Mel Gibson, Miles Teller, Jeff Bridges, Billy Crystal, Jamie Chung, and Bryan Greenberg are also listed among the Hollywood celebrities confirmed to have lost their homes, in addition to talk show host Ricki Lake, and reality stars Spencer and Heidi Pratt.
The wildfires raging in and around Los Angeles coincide with the commencement of Hollywood’s awards season.
The organizers of the Oscars have delayed the announcement of nominations twice, with the shortlist currently scheduled for release on 23 January, and the annual luncheon prior to the ceremony has been canceled.
The awards ceremony is still planned to occur on 2 March. The Grammys, taking place on 2 February, are also reportedly proceeding as scheduled.