California Volunteers urges statewide service, donations for wildfire relief

Josh Friday, a staff member with California Volunteers, described a new effort called "California Love, California Strong" and asked Californians to give time, money and other support to wildfire victims.

"California Love, California Strong is an effort led by our first partner, Jennifer Sebel Newsom, who happens to be the chair of California Volunteers to engage Californians across the state in coming together and in helping each other and in supporting each other," Friday said. He spoke during a brief media interview about service activities timed with a Martin Luther King Jr. Day of service.

The effort asks Californians to volunteer at local organizations such as food banks and YMCAs, take climate action, check on neighbors and donate money and goods. Friday said donations can be made at philanthropyca.com and that people should also "give thanks and gratitude to our first responders and our volunteers who have stepped up in such a magnificent way." The host noted a recent telephone fundraiser raised more than $900,000.

Friday framed the program as both immediate relief and community support: "We're calling on all Californians because we think every Californian has something to give, whether that's their time ... or checking on your neighbor." He highlighted volunteering, monetary donations and public expressions of support as intended actions.

No formal government action, funding allocation or policy change was announced during the interview. The segment was a public-information appeal by California Volunteers emphasizing volunteerism and donations to support wildfire response and affected communities.