Various tech giants have stepped up with substantial financial support to assist Los Angeles in the aftermath of the devastating wildfires. The list of contributors includes industry leaders such as Meta, YouTube/Google, Amazon, Snap, Netflix, and Sony.
Here’s a breakdown of each company’s contributions and action plans to help rebuild the affected region:
YouTube and Google: $15M
YouTube and Google set aside $15 million for organizations dedicated to immediate relief efforts in LA. Beneficiaries include the American Red Cross, Emergency Network Los Angeles, the Center for Disaster Philanthropy, and the Institute for Nonprofit News.
The tech companies also mentioned that once normalcy resumes, they plan to offer their YouTube production facilities to creators and artists affected, to aid in reviving their businesses.
YouTube CEO Neal Mohan expressed his solidarity with the city, acknowledging its significant role in global entertainment and promising support for the community during its rebuilding process.
Meta pledged $2 million in both cash and advertising credits for relief activities, a representative confirmed. Additionally, Mark and Priscilla Zuckerberg made personal donations of $2 million.
The donations aim at providing immediate shelter and medical aid, and supporting long-term recovery efforts. The ad credits will be used for public service announcements and fundraising on Meta’s platforms.
While Meta’s contribution might appear less compared to its peers, the company highlighted its use of Data for Good tools to aid emergency response, including tracking movement and evacuation patterns. It has also activated Facebook’s Safety Check feature to help users inform friends and family of their safety.
Snap: $5M
Snap, under the leadership of CEO Evan Spiegel, has contributed $5 million towards immediate relief and has plans for further assistance. The company is also providing meals to evacuees and first responders and offering free space.
In an open letter to the city, Spiegel expressed his love for Los Angeles, his hometown, and vowed to use the company’s resources to help rebuild the community.
Amazon: $10M
Amazon has pledged $10 million to various relief organizations in LA, including the American Red Cross of Southern California, FireAid, and the Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation among others.
In addition to the financial aid, Amazon has also donated essential items to several local organizations involved in wildfire response. The company is leveraging its cloud technology to assist emergency responders.
Netflix: $10M
Netflix has given $10 million to organizations such as the Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation and World Central Kitchen. The streaming giant is also assisting its impacted employees, including providing temporary housing for those who lost their homes. They are also matching all employee charitable contributions.
Apple: Contribution confirmed, amount undisclosed
Apple has confirmed its contribution towards the victims and recovery efforts. Specific details are yet to be shared. Apple has also enabled a feature for users to easily donate to the American Red Cross through its App Store and Apple Music apps.
Sony: $5M
Sony has donated $5 million to support emergency relief in LA. The funds will be distributed among organizations supporting first responders, community relief, and employee assistance programs.
Beyond tech
Aside from tech giants, major entertainment companies have also made generous donations towards relief efforts. Warner Bros. Discovery, Comcast NBCUniversal, The Walt Disney Company, and Paramount have each pledged substantial amounts.
