What LA firefighters actually need...
Resource roundup for LA
Punting our regular WIAB programming to next week.
When Yours Truly launched Selleb in 2021 as an auction platform for celebrities, over half of our users — sellers and buyers alike — hailed from LA. Back then, we hadn’t yet secured outside funding, so we drained our savings, cashed out stock investments in our Robinhood accounts, and racked up credit card debt to make repeated trips to LA for boots-on-the-ground research and to forge IRL relationships with our sellers. It was an operationally intense year for us, hauling hundreds of pounds of clothing back to NYC. But we were so grateful, and none of it would have been possible without the welcoming LA community that took a chance on us, believed in us, and helped us grow; not to mention all our dear friends who let us crash in their homes (many in the Palisades). LA has always had a special place in our hearts.
Our hearts are shattered by the devastation unfolding in LA. To support these local communities that have lost everything, we are sharing a few donation ideas that have been recommended by our LA friends — some small but meaningful ways you can make a difference.
Aid for frontline workers: Selleb Miles Garber shared a noteworthy insight into what firefighters on the front lines really need: Zyns and Celsius. Below are screenshots Miles sent us from firefighters themselves (shared discreetly). If you are in LA and are looking for ways to help, consider dropping off these items directly at the fire stations. LAFD also has a separate official fund for equipment and supplies.
Ship specific items to the Altadena Girls (moving to a location in Pasadena) and Altadena Boys (ATTN: Samantha Mora 3360 E Foothill Blvd Unit #034 Pasadena, CA 91107).
Donate to individual families who have lost everything. Master GoFundMe lists with < 30% of their goal, here and here.
Sending love to those in LA,