Just Passing Through Trauma and Chaos
January 10, 2025 2:33 AM Subscribe
I am flying through LAX tomorrow with a 10 hour layover. I had planned to go out get a meal and get some things for the rest of the trip. Now that seems improper and perhaps unsafe. What could/should I do while there that appropriately reflects the gravity of this situation in this location?
I can donate but only want to donate directly and anonymously to those in need. Animal shelters perhaps? What else should i do?
I can donate but only want to donate directly and anonymously to those in need. Animal shelters perhaps? What else should i do?
Donating to shelters is a great idea, but it's also not improper to visit Los Angeles right now. It would be improper to go disaster touring, but the rest of the city would very much appreciate your patronage and there's an enormous amount of it outside of the affected areas. Go, eat, visit, enjoy yourself.
I'm on the board of a regional rescue (even though I no longer live there and only come through for work these days). I'm not going to pinpoint any single one that's going to be a better recipient of your help, because if you're offering financial support any and all gifts can be impactful. The impact of this will reverberate through the rescue networks in the entire region, so don't feel bound to donate to a precise geographical area's facilities. We're all familiar with the "response glut" that can come with a big news story, and it's not a sin to follow a strategy that suits how you feel.
Good on you for being considerate and wondering about this.
posted by late afternoon dreaming hotel at 5:58 AM on January 10 [6 favorites]
I'm on the board of a regional rescue (even though I no longer live there and only come through for work these days). I'm not going to pinpoint any single one that's going to be a better recipient of your help, because if you're offering financial support any and all gifts can be impactful. The impact of this will reverberate through the rescue networks in the entire region, so don't feel bound to donate to a precise geographical area's facilities. We're all familiar with the "response glut" that can come with a big news story, and it's not a sin to follow a strategy that suits how you feel.
Good on you for being considerate and wondering about this.
posted by late afternoon dreaming hotel at 5:58 AM on January 10 [6 favorites]
It's fine to come and do your business! LAX area is completely unaffected, other than some stinky air and the planes landing the opposite direction than usual (and maybe some triggering views on the way in). Of course, our hearts are breaking for our friends in the affected areas, but we're still going about our lives. Definitely not inappropriate for you to come do whatever you need/want to do during your layover.
For the best air quality experience, perhaps head south from LAX to places like Manhattan Beach for your shopping and dining. They have a good selection of retailers within easy Uber distance, depending on what you're looking to pick up. (If you're planning to Uber to/from LAX, research that first though - search the LAX subreddit for the best tips and tricks.)
If you would like to give something, California Community Foundation has a Wildfire Recovery Fund which helps individuals in marginalized communities impacted by wildfires. CCF is a pillar of the community and very well respected charitable organization here. Here's part of their description of the fund:
"With the growing impact of climate change, wildfire seasons in the state are only expected to worsen. Additionally, marginalized communities, who are often hardest hit, face the most significant barriers to accessing relief and recovery resources. To address this, our team utilizes data from CalFire and the CDC’s Social Vulnerability Index, ensuring that CCF’s grantmaking targets the most underserved – and hard to reach – communities. By focusing on those most affected, we aim to support and advance long-term recovery efforts for Californians who need it most."
posted by bluesky78987 at 6:42 AM on January 10 [1 favorite]
For the best air quality experience, perhaps head south from LAX to places like Manhattan Beach for your shopping and dining. They have a good selection of retailers within easy Uber distance, depending on what you're looking to pick up. (If you're planning to Uber to/from LAX, research that first though - search the LAX subreddit for the best tips and tricks.)
If you would like to give something, California Community Foundation has a Wildfire Recovery Fund which helps individuals in marginalized communities impacted by wildfires. CCF is a pillar of the community and very well respected charitable organization here. Here's part of their description of the fund:
"With the growing impact of climate change, wildfire seasons in the state are only expected to worsen. Additionally, marginalized communities, who are often hardest hit, face the most significant barriers to accessing relief and recovery resources. To address this, our team utilizes data from CalFire and the CDC’s Social Vulnerability Index, ensuring that CCF’s grantmaking targets the most underserved – and hard to reach – communities. By focusing on those most affected, we aim to support and advance long-term recovery efforts for Californians who need it most."
posted by bluesky78987 at 6:42 AM on January 10 [1 favorite]
Bring high quality masks preferably individually wrapped. For you but having extra to hand out to interested travelers would be a nice and simple thing to do.
posted by AlexiaSky at 9:07 AM on January 10 [3 favorites]
posted by AlexiaSky at 9:07 AM on January 10 [3 favorites]
Take a 20 minute walk to an In-N-Out burger. Trader Joe's is 10 minutes further.
posted by olopua at 10:39 AM on January 10 [2 favorites]
posted by olopua at 10:39 AM on January 10 [2 favorites]
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Don't go near burn areas such as Malibu/coast or Pasadena/Altadena area. You'll just be wasting your time. Stay away from mountains in general. It might be smokey all over the region, so a mask might offer some relief.
posted by 2N2222 at 3:10 AM on January 10 [7 favorites]