We start this blog entry expressing sadness at the continued devastation of the Southern California Wildfires. Our hearts go out to the Los Angeles community as we grieve the loss of life there. We want to inform you of the ongoing efforts to aid members in the area affected by the devastating wildfires.

Tragically, several members have lost their homes, and many more face significant challenges as they navigate this crisis. In response, President Loeb has activated the IATSE Disaster Response Committee. and West Coast Locals are actively working to support affected members and their families during this difficult time.

To streamline relief efforts and provide critical resources, the International has launched a Southern California Fires Resources and Relief Page. on their website. This page will be updated on a rolling basis as new mutual aid efforts, resources, and information become available. This page includes:

* Guidance for members who have lost their homes or been forced to evacuate

* Information on shelter options and financial aid opportunities.

* Instructions for individuals, employers, and Local Unions to donate to support affected members.

Additionally, IATSE Local 80 has opened their stage (2520 West Olive Ave, Burbank CA) as a relief shelter. If you know IATSE members affected by the local fires, they should call Local 80 at (818) 526-0700 for additional information.

Finally, you can read more about the Richard F. Walsh/Alfred W. Di Tolla/Harold P. Spivak Foundation below. One of their many missions is to provide funds to help pay for food, clothing, shelter, and other necessities for IATSE members affected by natural disasters. If you know an IATSE member affected by the wildfires they may be eligible for assistance.

The IA has activated the Walsh/DiTolla/Spivak Foundation Disaster Relief Fund to help members cover necessities such as food, clothing, and shelter. This charitable foundation is funded by individual contributions and a portion of the revenue from the sale of each per capita stamp. Given the scale of this disaster, we anticipate a record number of applicants for assistance. We are urging all Locals and individuals to contribute as generously as possible.

If you know IATSE members impacted or displaced by the ongoing wildfires in Southern CA, please let them know that assistance is available.

Applications and Instructions can be found HERE.


How to Donate to the Foundation:

* Paypal: Individuals may send donations to iatsepayments@iatse.net with "LA Wildfires" in the note/subject.

* Check: Make checks payable to "Walsh/Di Tolla/Spivak Foundation" and mail to:

The Walsh/Di Tolla/Spivak Foundation
c/o IATSE
207 W. 25th St., 4th Fl.
New York, NY 10001

* Credit card: While credit card donations from individual members can be made, we highly encourage check donations as it is easier for their staff to process. Members can make credit card donations by calling the IATSE General Office at 212-730-1770. Donations on behalf of local unions must be made by check.

NOTE: Donations from Employers and Local Unions must be submitted via check.

This is a time to demonstrate the spirit of unionism. A time to show our sisters, brothers, and kin that they are not alone in the face of disaster and tragedy. Coming to each other's aid in times of great need is what solidarity is about, and together we can provide meaningful support and hope to our members who have been affected by these fires.