The fires in Los Angeles have devastated individuals and communities alike, and the hospitality industry is stepping up as well. The Los Angeles Times has an updated list of ways to help people affected by the fires, and hotel industry associations have shared ways for hoteliers to support one another and other people affected by the fires.
AHLA
On Thursday, President Joe Biden approved a major disaster declaration for Los Angeles County that makes federal disaster assistance available to individuals as well as to state, tribal and local governments. Individuals can begin the process of applying for disaster assistance at https://www.disasterassistance.gov or via the FEMA mobile app (available for Google and Apple). A fact sheet on the federal government’s response is here.
AHLA is working to share information about resources available through members, partners and federal, state and local government agencies. People with additional information or resources can use this form to submit details to AHLA, and AHLA will share updates with its members.
The Hotel Association of Los Angeles is keeping an updated list of area hotels that are providing wildfire relief accommodations.
AHLA’s Allied members consist of service providers and suppliers who are ready to support AHLA members:
Allied+ Members
SERVPRO Team Zubricki offers 24-hour rapid response disaster recovery services
Signal Restoration Services offers property restoration services and a 24-hour emergency response program.
Allied Members
AON offers a Wildfire Preparedness Plan and Recovery Checklist as well as guidance on Complex Claim Preparation and Presentation.
AccuLock offers emergency assistance with locks.
Strategic Claims Consultants has guidance on how to file a claim.
AAHOA
AAHOA has launched the Hope & Haven: California Wildfire Recovery Initiative, powered by the AAHOA Charitable Foundation to support communities affected by the fires.
"AAHOA Members and the hospitality industry as a whole have always stepped up in times of crisis, and the California wildfires are no exception," AAHOA Chairman Miraj S. Patel said in a statement. "Hoteliers across the state are opening their doors to provide shelter and refuge for families displaced by these devastating fires. True hospitality plays a profound role in offering safety, care, and hope during challenging times, and this initiative is a testament to the compassion and leadership of AAHOA Members and hotel owners who continue to be a lifeline for their communities."
"The hospitality industry has long been a source of stability and hope in times of crisis," said AAHOA President & CEO Laura Lee Blake. "The AAHOA community extends its deepest gratitude to the brave firefighters, first responders, and countless others who are working tirelessly to protect lives and property. We are also praying for those who have lost their homes, loved ones, and livelihoods. Our members' generosity in providing shelter, donations, and community support underscores their unwavering commitment to serving those in need. Through this initiative, we are proud to give hoteliers the opportunity to make a meaningful difference and help families rebuild their lives during this challenging time."
AAHOA and AAHOA Charitable Foundation are coordinating efforts with state and local government agencies to help mobilize resources effectively.
"The AAHOA Charitable Foundation is rooted in the mission of making a meaningful difference, and this initiative exemplifies the core of who we are," said AAHOA Charitable Foundation Chairman Nishant (Neal) Patel. "In the face of the devastating California wildfires, our foundation is proud to support efforts that bring relief and hope to those affected. From providing room nights to raising critical funds, this campaign demonstrates the collective strength and compassion of AAHOA Members and the hospitality industry at large. Together, we are not only offering immediate shelter but also helping to lay the foundation for recovery and the resilience of the communities we serve."
Hope & Haven: The ACF California Wildfire Recovery Initiative includes:
- Room Night Donation Program: Hotel owners are donating complimentary room nights to provide temporary housing for wildfire victims and their families.
- Fundraising: The Hope & Haven: The ACF California Wildfire Recovery Initiative Relief Fund is accepting donations to provide financial support for rebuilding homes, restoring businesses and assisting affected families.
AAHOA encourages its members to participate in local community service efforts, including volunteering at shelters, distributing supplies, and supporting relief programs.
To learn more about the initiative or how to get involved, visit AAHOA.com/hopeandhaven or email [email protected].
Choice Hotels International
Choice Hotels International has launched a new campaign benefitting the American Red Cross relief efforts to help people impacted by the wildfires. Choice Privileges members' donations to the Red Cross will now be eligible for a match from Choice Hotels of up to $25,000.
"We are committed to supporting the communities affected by the wildfires in California. By matching donations, we hope to amplify the impact of our members' generosity and provide much-needed assistance to those in need," said Megan Brumagim, VP, upscale brands and chief sustainability officer, Choice Hotels International.
Additional donations may come from Choice Hotels associates and matching through Choice Gives, the company's corporate charity donation matching program.
To donate Choice Privileges points, visit https://www.choicehotels.com/choice-privileges/redeem-points/donations.
Hilton
Hilton and American Express are partnering to make 20,000 hotel room nights available at no charge to affected people across the greater Los Angeles area.
Hilton is working with Los Angeles County non-profit organization 211 LA to coordinate the distribution of rooms to people who have been displaced by wildfires, many of whom have already applied to the nonprofit for accommodation. Individuals who have not yet applied can complete an application online.
In addition to these efforts, Hilton and The Hilton Global Foundation are also supporting first responders fighting fires in the Los Angeles area with contributions to the Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation and the International Association of Fire Fighters Foundation. Hilton Honors members can join in relief efforts by donating points to support the American Red Cross, the Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation and other nonprofit organizations.
Since the beginning of the fires, thousands of local Hilton team members across 80 Los Angeles-area hotels have been working to protect guests. Some began supporting the community with discounted hotel rooms almost immediately.
Food & Beverage
Restaurants and bars across Los Angeles are also stepping up to help people affected. Learn more at Hotel Management’s sister publication Bar & Restaurant.