The Eaton and Palisades fires’ rampage through Los Angeles has killed at least 27 people, destroyed more than 12,000 structures and put more than 80,000 under evacuation orders. The fires are likely to be among the most destructive in California history, according to the state agency CalFire. While the Central Valley is hundreds of miles away from the devastation, one area teen is hoping to make a difference for his fellow Californians suffering loss through a Red Cross fundraising campaign.
Ryan Nazari, son of Emanuel Medical Center interventional cardiologist Dr. Reza Nazari, has raised over $7,800 for victims of the wildfires through his online Red Cross fundraising effort, Embers of Hope.
“Embers of Hope was created to support the communities impacted by the devastating wildfires in southern California. The destruction has been overwhelming, and many families are in urgent need of help to rebuild their lives.
“By donating to Embers of Hope, you’ll be supporting Red Cross efforts to provide essential resources like shelter, food, and medical aid to those affected by the fires. Every contribution, no matter how small, helps bring hope to those facing the hardest times of their lives,” reads Nazari’s campaign webpage.
The Modesto High junior said he was watching the news one night about what was going on in L.A. and decided he wanted to do something to help.
“What I realized is the best thing I can do with my abilities is convince people (to help)…I then chose to start a fundraiser, believing that if I was able to talk to people and convince them to send some money over, I’ll be able to make a difference and help people out in their efforts to rebuild their lives,” Nazari said.
The high school student said he chose the Red Cross for his campaign because the organization was the first one that came to his mind when it comes to disaster aid.
More than 200 American Red Cross workers are helping southern California residents fleeing from the massive and fast-moving wildfires that have destroyed thousands of homes of all sizes. The Red Cross is helping to provide safe shelter, food, emotional support and other critical services to those in need and is focused on making sure everyone has a safe place to stay.
For more information on Nazari’s campaign, visit: https://bit.ly/40Ixgl9
