The Firebirds, in collaboration with four other California AHL teams, have initiated a donation drive to support Los Angeles wildfire relief efforts. The Bakersfield Condors, Ontario Reign, San Diego Gulls, and San Jose Barracuda are joining the Firebirds in collecting donations throughout this week. The collected items will be delivered to the Los Angeles area on January 20th.
In addition to this initiative, the Firebirds and the One Valley Foundation have pledged $10,000 to the Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation. Another $7,000 was raised during a recent game through an auction organized by the One Valley Foundation.
John Page, Senior Vice President of Acrisure Arena/OVG/Coachella Valley Firebirds stated: “Our thoughts are with those affected by the fires in the Los Angeles area. While we continue to explore options on how we can assist further, the Firebirds and One Valley Foundation are pledging a $10,000 donation to the Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation. This money will equip the LAFD members with Emergency Fire Shelters, Hydration Backpacks, and Wildland Brush Tools."
Coachella Valley will host several donation drives from January 14th to January 16th at Acrisure Arena's VIP Lot A. Items requested include non-food essentials such as baby diapers and blankets as well as food items like cases of water and energy bars.
Debbie Espinosa, President and CEO of FIND Food Bank expressed appreciation for these efforts: “We deeply appreciate the Coachella Valley Firebirds for leading the efforts in collecting necessary essentials for our neighbors impacted by the LA fires."
On January 16th, half of all individual ticket sales for that day's game will be directed toward fire relief efforts. Tickets can be purchased online or at Acrisure Arena's Ticketmaster Box Office.
The box office will extend its hours during this week’s events to accommodate donors and attendees.
For more information on donations and related activities visit www.OneValleyFoundation.org/LosAngeles or follow @Firebirds on social media.