Los Angeles, CA—Devastating wildfires continue to rage throughout Southern California. On Friday, the Los Angeles Times reported that 10 people have died, many more are severely injured, and more than 9,000 structures have been damaged or destroyed as firefighters continue to fight multiple fires in what experts say may be the costliest wildfire disaster in U.S. history. The danger remains, as the L.A. Times also reported that there is expected to be a brief respite from the winds on Saturday, then gusty winds are expected to return as early as Sunday and could be the start to as many as three Santa Ana wind events next week.

ABC News reported that early estimates predict $57 billion in damages, and there are concerns that the devastation could possibly cause the state's insurance crisis to swell.

Progressive Grocer reported that at least two stores have been destroyed, and others burned, including a Ralphs supermarket in Pacific Palisades and a nearby Gelson's Markets.

Surveying the devastation on January 8, the L.A. Times reported that the Erewhon location at Sunset Blvd in Pacific Palisades has survived the fires, but the surrounding area is in ruins. “The whole Palisades is done," Michael Payton, Erewhon store director, told the newspaper . "The whole town is done. This is complete devastation.”

Offering support to those in need

Sandy Gooch, Founder of Mrs. Gooch’s Natural Foods Markets, shared her thoughts with WholeFooods Magazine: "It certainly is a time for reflection and action. Many people are now collecting clothes and donating food to those who have been displaced by the fires. As well, free or discounted food is being offered to workers in the fire departments and police departments." Gooch shared a link to L.A. County restaurants offering food and relief to fire evacuees and first responders.

On social media, Erewhon shared: "In response to the devastating fires, we are partnering with the American Red Cross: Wildfire Response. We've launched a donation drive at all of our stores and we'll be matching every contribution made." Erewhon's Palisades and Calabasas locations will remain closed until it is safe to reopen, and the company will share updates on closures as the situation evolves.

In a shining example of coming together to support those in need, businesses in Southern California who were able to help took action. The Long Beach Post News reported that Chris Sweeney, Founder of RightMealz, a healthy eating establishment in Long Beach, started a collection drive that delivered essentials to  evacuation centers. Sweeney shared that the community rallied around the effort and filled three 26-foot box trucks with much-needed supplies such as water, diapers, clothing, and pet food.

FounderMade shared a list of organizations that are dedicating all of their efforts to assist those impacted by the fires:

Looking ahead

"Obviously, it is a symbol of climate change and the many action steps must be taken to deal with it," Gooch reflected. "The fires also let city governments realize that ongoing planning and execution must occur in order to maintain, protect and enhance communities. Society can never relax on what has been improved in the past. Observation and implementation must always be present. The fires have also promoted people having gratitude for their loving friends, family and life. Yes, communities must move forward and implement wise progress with appropriate budgeting, and planning. But, gratitude is also imperative as we collectively reimagine the course of our city."

This is a developing story and will be updated as more information becomes available. At WholeFoods Magazine, our hearts go out to everyone impacted by the wildfires. To our friends and colleagues in the natural products industry, if we can support you by raising awareness to your situation and your needs, please contact us at editor@wfcinc.com.