The Australian bushfires shook the world. Just watching the news is disheartening, seeing all the people and animals affected by this onslaught of flames.
One thing we should keep in mind is that this is definitely not the last - not by a long shot (unless the world suddenly becomes 100% ecologically conscious). In fact, the World Meteorological Organization of the United Nations warns people in the danger zones to stay vigilant and prepared for quick evacuation at any time.
Support is Coming In
All disasters on a global scale invite the support of foreign countries, organizations, and even individuals. The same applies to the bushfires. Having organizations and groups engaged, coordinated, and on the disaster site provides a more efficient way for everyone to help. Having local partnerships allows the donations, if monetarily, to double or even triple their value - as opposed to donations in kind.
Note: It’s not recommended to donate clothes, food, water, medications, and other hard goods unless organizations ask for them specifically due to time constraints. Receiving, packing, sorting, and distributing relief goods take up more time, energy, and manpower.
The biggest need that Australia has at the moment is enough resources to rebuild homes, structures, and communities. Future-proofing these communities and animal habitats is another goal.
There are already a lot of volunteer firefighters in Australia, which is a godsend. However, gearing them up with the proper equipment requires further resources, too. These volunteers are also leaving their jobs to help save their country, often for weeks on end. Even if the government has been supplementing their incomes, there is a shortfall in terms of their expenses.
How You Can Help
The Center for Disaster Philanthropy (CDP) was founded to give donors the opportunity to help out with the ongoing challenges during crises like these bushfires. Their Global Recovery Fund is a great place to start. Or if you prefer to donate to medium-term and long-term rehabilitation efforts, you can take a look at the list of charities we’ve listed below.
We, as citizens of the world, can also do our part to help out. Here are some charities that focus on rescue, rehabilitation, and general support for the firefighters and rescue volunteers:
- Humane Society International
- WWF’s Australian Wildlife and Nature Recovery Fund
- Australian Red Cross
- St. Vincent de Paul Society
- Foodbank
- Givit
- New South Wales Rural Fire Service
- Victoria Country Fire Authority
- Country Fire Service in South Australia
- Rural Fire Brigades Association (Queensland)
#PurisureGivesBack
This week, Purisure gives back 10% of its sales to WWF Australia. We hope, in our small way, we can help with the rescue and rehabilitation of animals affected by the bushfires.
You can extend your help, too, by supporting our products - at absolutely no added cost on your end. We’re also offering free shipping on all products, sitewide, for the entire week to show our thanks.
Let’s help make the world a better, safer place for every living being.
References:
https://disasterphilanthropy.org/disaster/2019-australian-wildfires/