Chargers donate $200,000 to wildfire relief, appeal to fans to help with supplies ahead of playoffs
As forest fires continue to wreak havoc in the Los Angeles area, one of its professional sports teams is taking action to help relief efforts.
Los Angeles Chargers announced Wednesday that they will provide $200,000 in targeted funding to the American Red Cross, the LA Fire Department Foundation, Team Rubicon and pet rescue organizations that shelter animals displaced by the wildfires.
The franchise is also inviting fans to attend “Charge Up to Playoff” events ahead of the team’s game against the Houston Texans, which kicks off in Houston on Saturday.
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Los Angeles Chargers owner Dean Spanos looks on from the sidelines against the Cincinnati Bengals at SoFi Stadium. (Kirby Lee-Imagn images)
The team’s viewing party at the Hermosa Beach Pier on Saturday will also serve as a supply drive as the Chargers are asking fans to bring any supplies to evacuation centers, including El Camino Real High School.
“While we are currently experiencing unprecedented conditions that seemingly couldn’t get any worse as we deal with multiple wildfires across our region, we are also witnessing our community at its best,” Chargers owner Dean Spanos it is stated in the press release. “The bravery, selflessness, bravery, sacrifice and compassion shown by first responders, good Samaritans, friends, family and neighbors over the last 24 hours has been outstanding.
“Our hearts go out to everyone displaced by these fires, the firefighters and police officers and frontline workers who are risking their lives to protect us and those of us who have come to each other’s aid in this incredible time of need. “
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The Chargers had a “Charge Up to Playoffs” event scheduled for Friday in Sherman Oaks, but wildfires continue to ravage the area. However, similar events will take place as scheduled, and it is hoped that supporters who can provide goods such as blankets, bottled water, new or gently used clothing, first aid kits and more will join the relief effort.
Tim has a history of helping those in need, and not just in his community. They recently donated a 50/50 draw from the team’s game against Tennessee Titans to the American Red Cross mountain fire relief efforts in Ventura County. Also, the organization contributed funds to help with the Maui Fire, Hurricane Harvey and other causes.
Los Angeles Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert passes the ball against the New England Patriots at Gillette Stadium. (David Butler II-Imagn Images)
While the Chargers are focused on supporting their community in this time of crisis, they have to think about their game in Houston in a few days.
The team may not play at its home SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, Calif., which had an air quality index above 280 on Wednesday, but the team changed its practice schedule to limit players’ time outside, a team official told ESPN.
Meanwhile, a game is on the schedule at SoFi Stadium, as the Los Angeles Rams are scheduled to host the Minnesota Vikings on Monday night. The NFL released a statement saying it was closely monitoring the fires in Los Angeles.
Weather conditions do not help firefighters control the flames as it is often too windy for aircraft to fight the fires.
A general view of the Los Angeles Chargers helmet during the Kansas City Chiefs game at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium. (Denny Medley – USA Today Sports)
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The Los Angeles Fire Department has already called in all off-duty firefighters to help, and thousands are already working day and night to bring the fires under control.
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