Australian wildfires: Here's how you can donate to help the animals and people affected by the catastrophe
The Australian wildfires are a countrywide catastrophe and as they rage on, many have come forward to help those working tirelessly to help the humans, the animals and everyone in between. So far, the fires have claimed 24 lives and have destroyed more than 1,500 homes, ravaging through more than four million hectares of land and killed an estimated 500 million animals.
From 'Avengers' star Chris Hemsworth to Selena Gomez, Pink and Nicole Kidman have donated thousands of dollars along with other celebrities who are also using their social media platforms to urge their followers to contribute to the cause. Comedian Celeste Barber helped raise 28 million Australian dollars for the cause. Here's how you can do your bit as well.
Learn what is causing these fires
Climate change is making natural disasters much worse and this human-caused climate change is also lengthening the fire season. It causes a decrease in rains and increases in temperature, according to the Australian Bureau of Meteorology. 2019 was not only the hottest but the driest year in the country and that December was one of the top two hottest recorded months.
The spark is said to have ignited after some people allegedly lit the fires, police say. According to CNN, police have charged at least 24 people for intentionally starting bushfires in the state of New South Wales.
Donate cash, whenever possible
According to a Guardian report, Krystian Seibert, an industry fellow at Swinburne University’s Centre for Social Impact suggested that it was a much better idea to donate money instead of goods. While giving blankets and other goods may seem like a good idea, it becomes overwhelming for charities to store them and it is much easier logistically for them to provide emergency relief when you donate money instead unless you are donating for the particular need.
You can also donate blood as well to the Australian Red Cross, it is always useful to do so.
Avoid scams
However, before you donate check the charity on Australian Charities and Non-Profits Commission's website, or on CharityWatch, a U.S.-based charity watchdog. You can also call the ACCC on the hotline set up for the public to report bushfire related scams on 1300 795 995. GoFundMe campaigns are also relatively safe due to the GoFundMe guarantee in cases of campaign misuse. Also, read how to determine if it is safe to donate to a campaign here.
Here's where to help animals
A number of organizations are working towards helping the voiceless whose homes and lives have been engulfed in the fire.
WIRES (Wildlife Information, Rescue and Education Service Incorporated)
They are Australia's largest wildlife rescue organization. To help rescue sick, injured and orphaned wildlife please support WIRES Emergency Fund.
Koala Hospital Port Macquarie
The Koala Hospital was established in 1973 is an activity of the Koala Conservation Australia Incorporated. They're currently working to save the koalas that have been affected by the wildfires. "It is not only a Hospital to treat sick and injured koalas but it is also involved in research with University Sydney, University Technology Queensland, and the Australian Museum into koala diseases. Between 200 and 250 koalas are admitted through the Hospital annually," says its official website. Donate here.
RSPCA New South Wales
Each year more than 29,682 animals are helped by the RSPCA. "Currently, our inspectors and staff are assisting at evacuation centers across NSW, helping members of the public to keep their pets and livestock safe from the unprecedented fires," the organization said on their website.
You can stay updated on news on their Facebook page and can make a donation here.
Australian Koala Foundation
This nonprofit assists about 65 koalas every year and are working to ensure the safety of koalas. Donate to them here
Koalas in Care Inc.
It is a completely volunteer-run organization and registered charity. The organization "prides itself on providing the best possible care and giving our koala patients every chance for recovery." Check out rescued Lucas making a recovery under their care here.
You can donate here.
World Wildlife Fund
The WWF is working to save Australian wildlife and restore land for future habitats. Donate here.
Vets Beyond Borders
Vets Beyond Borders is an animal charity that deploys volunteer vets, vet nurses and other animal welfare workers to help improve the lives of animals and developing communities around the world. They are currently seeking volunteer assistance from vets and nurses with experience in some or all of the following areas:
1. Wildlife
2. Farm animals
3. Companion animals
4. Aviculture
5. Burns management
You can donate to help them here.
Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital
Bindi Irwin, the daughter of famed wildlife conservationist and "Crocodile Hunter" Steve Irwin, has been taking in many displaced animals at the Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital, which is owned by her mother, Terri. Donate to keep up their good work here.
Here's how to donate to help people
Salvation Army
The Salvation Army has launched a Disaster Appeal to support communities affected by the devastating bushfires across Australia. Spokesperson Major Bruce Harmer said the Salvos have deployed relief teams to provide food and water, along with emotional and practical support, to emergency services personnel and displaced people as they arrive at evacuation centers. Donate here.
NSW Rural Fire Service
Comedian Celeste Barber is raising funds to help the firefighters who are constantly putting themselves in danger to save others.
Fire Relief Fund for First Nations Communities
This community fundraiser is raising money to help First Nations people who "have been affected by these tragic circumstances with losses of homes/ severe damage to property and important parts of the landscape." Donate here.
Foodbank
For every $1 donated, they can provide $6 worth of supplies to communities affected by the fires. You can donate here.
Save the Children
It is collecting donations to help support affected kids deal with the trauma of the wildfires. You can donate here.
Australian Red Cross
The Australian Red Cross is accepting donations to its Disaster Relief and Recovery Fund to continue to provide emergency grants to help people cover their immediate needs. You can also volunteer.
Find a Bed
This campaign provides people and animals without a place to stay, help. "In the midst of the fire crisis across the Australian east coast, many people and their animals will need somewhere to stay. 'Need a place to stay? Have a bed to offer? Let us know," they say. They don't take donations.