Free Rides And Free Housing For Fire Victims In SoCal

By Mike Roe with LAist staff

Whether due to altruism, good publicity, or something in between, several corporations have decided to offer a helping hand to those affected by Southern California's recent fires.

Airbnb

Airbnb is using its Open Homes Program to help those displaced by the recent Southern California wildfires. The company recruits hosts willing to provide free housing, then acts as a clearing house to support displaced residents and disaster relief workers.

They're offering help in the area through Nov. 29, and are asking more local hosts to offer their homes.

"Our goal is to ensure those able to open their homes are aware of the program and that anyone affected and in need of temporary accommodation knows this program is an option," the company said in a press release.

People started opening their homes in the wake of Hurricane Sandy in 2012, and Airbnb has since built on this concept to make it official, according to the company.

Lyft

Lyft has partnered with the United Way and 2-1-1 to offer "Relief Rides" in Ventura and Los Angeles counties. People who need a ride can dial 2-1-1 in those areas to get a ride if they're in need following the fires.

"We're devastated by the fires in Southern California and our hearts go out to those who have been affected," Lyft Southern California Market Manager Elliot Greenberger said in a statement. "We'll be monitoring the roads to prioritize our drivers' safety."

Shake Shack

The burger/milkshake/other deliciousness venue is donating Tuesday's proceeds from their Westlake Village location to support relief efforts through the Ventura County Community Foundation.

If you know of other companies offering support, please let us know in the comments. And if you are looking to help, here are some ways to get involved.

Uber

Uber has been offering free rides to evacuation centers to those affected by the fires in both L.A. and Ventura counties. That includes two free rides, up to $50 each, with the promo code VENSAFE1018 in the Uber app. Their offer is available through midnight on Nov. 17 to and from the evacuation centers listed here.

Verizon

The phone company is offering free calls, texts and data to any of its customers who have been affected by the Camp, Woolsey and Hill fires, according to a recent tweet. They are also establishing "fully-equipped communication stations at evacuation centers."

This article has been updated.

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