Since January 7, the world has been watching with grave concern the unprecedented wildfire devastation in Southern California. Fires, intensified by fierce winds, have left communities in ruins—causing 27 deaths, destroying or damaging more than 12,401 structures, and forcing over 200,000 people to evacuate, including many first responders. 

Despite being personally affected, public service workers—especially firefighters, first responders, nurses, and healthcare workers—remain on the front lines, continuing to assist the affected population. 

While the flames are now contained, millions of Southern Californians are beginning their arduous journey to recovery. A major concern is the health impact on affected communities. Natural disasters cause severe, long-term damage to workers’ health, provoking lifelong medical issues that are not included in official death tolls and impact assessments, despite having been obliged to work under these extreme conditions. 

Public Services International (PSI) calls for solidarity and support from its affiliates to support front-line workers who have been serving communities since the crisis began or who live in affected areas. Many workers who belong to PSI's affiliates—including AFSCME, AFT, SEIU, the Teamsters, and NNU—have lost their homes and workplaces. Thousands more continue to maintain essential public services under extremely difficult conditions. 

PSI's front-line affiliates have requested donations to Fire Relief Funds. These funds provide essential support for workers to access immediate relief, recover from the destruction, and rebuild their lives. They cannot do this alone. 

PSI's World Women's Committee (WOC) leadership met on January 17th and expressed their concern while extending solidarity to union siblings in California. They emphasized the disproportionate impact of extreme climate crisis events on women and girls while acknowledging the courage and bravery of first responders in saving and protecting lives. The WOC reinforced the importance of public service workers and paid tribute to PSI members in California. 

It is vital that we extend our solidarity to these workers facing unimaginable hardships. Contributions to Relief Funds make a direct and meaningful impact. PSI Inter-America has already donated from our regional solidarity fund, and we urge all affiliates to consider making direct donations. These funds provide essential building blocks for restoring normalcy to those affected. Together, we can provide much-needed relief and support for workers in California, demonstrating that they are not alone. 

For more information on how to donate to Relief Funds, please visit: 

American Federation of Teachers – AFT 

Service Employees International Union – SEIU 

American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees – AFSCME 

National Nurses United – NNU 

International Brotherhood of Teamsters – IBT: Checks payable to: Teamsters Joint Council 42 Charity Fund. Memo: CA Wildfires 

Teamsters Joint Council 42: 981 Corporate Center Dr. Suite 200 

Pomona CA 91768