The socialite’s generosity has been applauded after the mom-of-two vowed to volunteer to support young families affected by the fire
As wildfires continue to burn through Los Angeles, former reality TV star Paris Hilton has launched a generous fundraiser to support those in need in the county.
The city has bared witness to the most destructive fires in its history, with six separate beasts burning through entire neighborhoods in northwest Los Angeles.
The death toll has risen to 11 people, while more than 153,000 more have been ordered to evacuate their homes.
It all began on Tuesday when Palisades, Eaton and Hurst fires set the city alight. Since then, Palisades Fire has burned through 21,596 acres with only eight percent of it in containment, stretching between Malibu and Santa Monica – and has since started spreading east.
Eaton Fire has burned through 14,117 acres with just three percent containment, Kenneth Fire has spread across 1,052 acres with 50 percent containment, Hurst Fire has damaged 771 acres with 70 percent of it contained. The Lidia Fire has burned through 395 acres, but is just two percent from being entirely contained. Meanwhile, the newest Archer Fire is spread across 19 acres with zero percent containment.
Wildfires continue to burn through Los Angeles (California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection)
Taking to Instagram, Hilton, who has lost her own home in Malibu to the Palisades Fire, issued the following statement: “My heart is with everyone impacted by the devastating fires here in LA. While I’ve lost my Malibu home, my thoughts are with the countless families who have lost so much more—their homes, cherished keepsakes, the communities they loved, and their sense of stability.
“As a mom, I can’t imagine the pain and fear of not having a safe place for your babies so I’m launching an emergency fund through my nonprofit 11:11 Media Impact to support displaced families with young children.
“I’m starting with a personal contribution of $100,000, and will be matching additional dollars raised up to $100,000 more. I am looking for others to donate and match alongside me to do our part!”
She went on to explain that ‘donations will support our young families and pets’ to provide monetary assistance, as well as providing ‘short-term housing and hotel stays’ for those with children and to help fund animal shelters working with displaced pets.
Aerial view of homes Palisades Fire has burned through in Los Angeles (JOSH EDELSON/AFP via Getty Images)
Some of the money raised will also go towards ‘delivering essentials and supplies to evacuation centers’ – which Hilton has volunteered to do herself this weekend.
The mom-of-two went on to thank a number of organizations including Sean Penn’s aid group CORE – which stands for Community Organized Relief Effort, and responds to support communities in and beyond crisis.
Adding: “Let’s come together for LA. Every dollar makes a difference, and we’ll make sure the support reaches those who need it most. Visit the link in my bio to help.”
Hilton has been applauded by her fans for her generosity. One commented: “You literally are my favorite celebrity. You continue to amaze me with your kindness and selflessness. Bless you.”
While another said: “Praying for your family and everyone that has been affected. @parishilton @carterreum_official you have such a big heart! You will get through this.”
