Story highlights
- At least 62,000 acres of land have been burned in California
- Thousands have been evacuated and hundreds of homes have been destroyed
- Organizations are stepping up to help with financial relief
(CNN)A state of emergency is in effect after wildfires have scorched at least 62,000 acres of land in California.
Hundreds of homes across Napa, Lake, Amador and Calaveras counties have been destroyed and thousands of residents have been evacuated. With the sudden impact of the fires, money is what's needed most.
CNN Impact Your World is still in the process of gathering more ways to help, but here is an initial list:
Providing funds
The Lake County Office of Emergency Services is asking those who want to help to consider making monetary donations through the Lake County Local Assistance program. Your donation will go directly toward fire recovery efforts.
Redwood Credit Union has established the Lake County Fire Victims Fund. All of the donations will go directly to aid victims and relief efforts in Lake County communities.
California Valley fire: Driving through a burning town 00:13
The Salvation Army has deployed multiple mobile kitchens who are serving evacuees and first responders in all areas impacted by the wildfires. Right now, the organization needs help via monetary donations, to donate designate "Northern California Fires."
Finding victims
The American Red Cross has a "Safe and Well" website where evacuees can register to let their families know they are safe. If online access is not available, you can call 1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767).
Social media helping animals
Many victims are turning to Facebook groups to locate and reconnect lost animals to their owners. Here are a few:
