How The Walt Disney Company is Helping LA Rebuild After Devastating Wildfires
The Walt Disney Company has long been intertwined with the Los Angeles community. In the aftermath of the tragic wildfires, Disney is taking action to support the region in its recovery efforts.
From financial aid to housing to kid kits and more, Disney is utilizing its resources to bring relief and recovery efforts to all affected.
Disney Commits $15 Million to Fire Relief and Rebuilding
Disney has pledged $15 million in immediate relief and rebuilding funds. These funds will support critical organizations, including the American Red Cross, the Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation, and the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank.
Credit: Photo by Ringo H W Chiu/AP/REX/Shutterstock (9972601w)
“The Walt Disney Company is committed to supporting our community and our employees as we all work together to recover and rebuild from this unbelievable devastation,” said Bob Iger, CEO, The Walt Disney Company.
Photo: Deadline
“Walt Disney came to Los Angeles with little more than his limitless imagination, and it was here that he chose to make his home, pursue his dreams, and create extraordinary storytelling that means so much to so many people around the world. We are proud to provide assistance to this resilient and vibrant community in this moment of need.”
Disney’s Opens Wardrobe Warehouse for Cast Members
Disney Entertainment Television opened its wardrobe warehouse in North Hollywood to assist employees and their families. The warehouse, stocked with clothing and shoes from Disney film and TV productions, has provided essential items free of charge.
Photo: Disney
“Most companies are not sitting on an entire warehouse full of wardrobe — some of which has been barely used, if it’s been used at all,” said Heidi Chong, Vice President of Production Shared Services for Disney Entertainment Television.
Photo: Disney
“We really want to emphasize to the families: ‘If you come here, we’ve already organized everything for you. It’s all on display on the racks. You can find what you need.’ There are no limits to the amounts that people are getting; it’s really about what they need.”
Supporting Employees Through Housing Assistance and Relief Funds
Disney has created additional resources for its Disney Employee Relief Fund to provide more financial aid to employees impacted by the fires.
In addition, the company has secured both short-term and long-term housing solutions for displaced employees.
Disney VoluntEARS Bring Comfort (and Fun) to Kids
Disney VoluntEARS quickly mobilized to assemble Disney-themed comfort kits for children staying in American Red Cross shelters.
These kits were filled with plush toys, coloring books, and activity sets, bringing moments of joy and Disney fun to children experiencing unimaginable loss.
“If there’s one company that can bring a smile to somebody’s face when they’re going through their most difficult time, it’s Disney,” said Josh D’Amaro, Chairman, Disney Experiences. “You look at operations like this, where Cast Members are coming together, everyone wants to reach out and help. And that’s what we’re here to do.”
Free Movie Screenings
To provide families with a temporary escape, Disney’s historic El Capitan Theatre in Hollywood hosted free screenings of Moana 2 and Mufasa: The Lion King.
Photo: Disney
General Manager James Wood emphasized the theatre’s resilience, stating, “Having these screenings in Hollywood at the El Capitan Theatre, a place that’s close to 100 years old, really showcases that we are going to keep going.”
Community Donation Drives and Collaborations
Disney VoluntEARS have collected and distributed over 200,000 essential items, including clothing, toiletries, and food.
These hardworking Cast Members partnered with community organizations, including Shelter Partnership and the LA Unified School District, for the collection.
Photo: Disney
Disney also collaborated with local Boys & Girls Clubs to host private screenings of Mufasa: The Lion King, which included themed giveaways and a surprise visit from Mickey!
Cathleen Taff, President, Production Services, Franchise Management & Theatrical Distribution, Disney Entertainment, Studios shared, “We know the joy and comfort a Disney movie can bring to a child and their family, and we’re honored to provide that sense of happiness and escape for these kids.”
A Community United
Walt Disney Company
As Los Angeles begins to rebuild and recover, Disney remains committed to supporting its team and the greater community.
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Feature Photo/Article Source: Walt Disney Company
