As wildfires rage across Los Angeles, Destinations International has launched the Destinations International LA Wildfire Recovery Fund to provide support for those affected by the devastation – raising over $100,000 in 72 hours. The world’s leading association of destination organisations, Destination International (DI) is using its network of partners to raise the funds.
Together with Destinations International Foundation, the two organisations contributed an initial $10,000 to the fund, raising yet more from other organisations in the USA. LA is a top destination for consumer and business travel in the US, and the city’s tourism industry may suffer a blow as news of the wildfires affects traveller confidence.
There are reports of over 24 fatalities, the loss of 12,000 structures and evacuation of more than 150,000 residents. With such a huge scale of damage, DI’s funds are desperately needed to give aid to people and rescue organisations in LA.
Donations have been made by the following organisations: Visit Baltimore – $10,000 Visit Greater Palm Springs – $10,000 IMEX Group – $10,000 Visit West Hollywood – $10,000 Visit Anaheim – $10,000 Visit Newport Beach – $10,000 Hunden Partners – $10,000 Longwoods International – $5,000 Meet Boston – $5,000 Visit Seattle – $5,000
Don Welsh, president and CEO of DI, commented: “We are deeply moved by the outpouring of support from Destinations International members and partners”. Managing director of the Destinations International Foundation Chelsea Welter also commented: “As an industry, we understand that when one community suffers, we all feel the impact.”
Destinations International and the Destinations International Foundation raised more than $70,000 last year to assist communities impacted by hurricanes Helene and Milton in the southeast of the US. All donations were directed to World Central Kitchen, a group founded by Chef Jose Andres that provides meals in response to humanitarian, climate and community crises.
Follow this link to make a donation to the fund.
