US Borax, Rio Tinto’s borates business, has donated $US600,000 ($956,938) to three organisations supporting relief efforts for communities directly impacted by the recent Los Angeles wildfires.
As of February 10, there have been 337 wildfires across the California region in the US. The fires started on January 7, with 57,636 acres burned and 29 fatalities recorded. Last week, it was confirmed by Cal Fire that the Eaton and Palisades fires in LA have been fully contained.
The fires were caused by a lack of rainfall combined with strong and dry Santa Ana winds.
In response to the destruction, Rio Tinto’s US Borax has donated $US200,000 ($318,979) to the Kern County Fire Department, the Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation and the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank.
“Our thoughts are with everyone who has been impacted by these devastating fires,” US Borax chief operations officer James Low said.
“Our local communities in Los Angeles and Kern County have supported us throughout our 150-year history in California. This donation is our way to support them in return.
“Our local Firefighters and the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank are doing incredible work in response to the fires, and we are honoured to support their efforts.”
The funds will be used to support immediate disaster response services such as emergency food and supplies and long-term recovery efforts like essential fire equipment replenishment and rebuilding communities affected by the fires.
“The demands on our firefighters – both physically and mentally – are greater than ever,” Kern County Fire Department chief Aaron Duncan said.
“At the Kern County Fire Department, the health and well-being of our team is our highest priority. This generous donation will play a vital role in supporting our efforts to ensure our firefighters have the resources they need to stay strong, both on and off the job.
“We are extremely grateful for this support, which helps us better care for those who dedicate their lives to protecting our community.”
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