Wildfires in California have once again wrought devastation, leaving thousands homeless, destroying over 10,000 structures and costing an estimated $50 billion. In response, organizations like the Tam Ky Project, founded by Maggie Holly, SVP, Credit & Operations Manager at Hanmi Bank Equipment Finance, are stepping up to provide critical support to firefighters, first responders and displaced residents.
“I have seen the community coming together to help, with people volunteering and donating in every neighborhood,” Holly said. “The outpouring of love and support from the community is truly inspiring. In times of crisis, it’s our compassion and readiness to support one another that truly makes a difference. Let’s get involved, whether through volunteering or contributing to the wonderful charities helping those affected. Together, we can bring hope and healing to our community.”
The Equipment Finance industry, known for its generosity and community spirit, is uniquely positioned to make a significant impact. Here’s how individuals and organizations can contribute to relief efforts and support those affected by this crisis.
Tam Ky Project: Providing Grassroots Support
The Tam Ky Project, led by Holly, has been tirelessly working to address immediate needs in the wake of the fires. From delivering essentials like water and Gatorade to firefighters to providing supplies for displaced families, their efforts have already reached multiple shelters, including the Koreatown YMCA Center for Community Well-Being and 9ThirtyLA.
To date, the Tam Ky Project has collected over $16,000 in donations, which have gone toward purchasing and delivering items such as:
- N95 masks
- Hygiene products
- Sleeping bags and blankets
- Food and water
- Pet supplies
- Baby formula and diapers
- A fully stocked van load of essential items to the donation center at Santa Anita Park
Tam Ky Project is planning to deliver additional items and gift cards to displaced families this week.
Their approach is personal and transparent — Tam Ky Project donors can see exactly where their contributions go. “Donors can follow their money,” Holly explains, emphasizing the grassroots nature of the organization.
How You Can Help
1. Monetary Donations
Financial contributions allow organizations like the Tam Ky Project to respond flexibly to evolving needs. You can donate directly to the Tam Ky Project via:
- Venmo: @tamkyproject
- PayPal: info@tamkyproject.org
- Zelle: info@tamkyproject.org
- Website: www.tamkyproject.org
- Mail: Make checks payable to:
- Tam Ky Project, Inc.
- 27068 La Paz Rd, Suite 204, Aliso Viejo, CA 92656
Other trusted organizations, such as the Red Cross and YMCA, are also accepting donations. Here’s information on how to donate:
Los Angeles YMCA:
For impacted community members throughout LA, the Y is providing no-cost services and support such as free childcare, showers, Wi-Fi and other essential services and items across Los Angeles County. Donate to the YMCA here.
Red Cross:
To help people affected by the 2025 California Wildfires:
- Visit redcross.org
- Call 1-800-RED CROSS (800-733-2767)
- Text the word CAWILDFIRES to 90999 to make a donation
Your gift enables the Red Cross to prepare for, respond to and help people recover from these disasters.
United Way of Greater Los Angeles Wildfire Response Fund:
United Way of Greater Los Angeles is a critical relief agency when wildfires strike the Los Angeles area. It addresses urgent, ongoing needs, which include support for low-income individuals whose livelihood has been disrupted, people experiencing homelessness and those who provide services to support them and disruptions to community organizations and small businesses.
- Learn more or support wildfire relief efforts at the United Way of Greater Los Angeles site.
Direct Relief Wildfire Response:
Direct Relief responds to wildfires by providing a wide variety of requested medical aid, from wound care to chronic disease treatments, and by distributing emergency grant funding. Direct Relief also supports local health organizations, improving resilience, and works to increase access to care in communities affected by wildfires and other emergencies. They deliver medical aid, emergency funding, solar and resilient power, and research and analysis to help governments and first responders make informed decisions about wildfires.
- Learn more about or support relief efforts at the Direct Relief website.
2. Physical Donations
First responders and shelters urgently need supplies. If you are in the greater Los Angeles area, consider donating essential items, including:
- Water bottles and Gatorade
- Healthy snacks (protein bars, fruits)
- Toiletries and hygiene products
- New towels, blankets and undergarments
- Baby food, formula and diapers
- Pet food and supplies
- Cleaning products
- Medical and first aid kits
Donations can be dropped off at designated shelters like the Koreatown YMCA or arranged through the Tam Ky Project. Contact Maggie Holly or the Tam Ky Project for more information.
3. Volunteer Opportunities
Volunteers are critical to sorting and distributing donations. If you’re in the Southern California area, consider donating your time to help with:
- Sorting donations at shelters
- Delivering supplies to firefighters and victims
- Coordinating pickups and drop-offs
To volunteer, contact the Tam Ky Project through their website or social media channels.
4. Corporate Support
Organizations in the Equipment Finance industry can play a vital role by:
- Matching employee donations
- Organizing internal fundraisers
- Sponsoring supply drives
- Offering logistical support, such as transportation for donations
Organizations including Oakmont Capital Services, Equipment Finance Cares, LTi Technology Solutions, BMO, CIBC and others have already contributed generously, demonstrating the industry’s commitment to community resilience.
A Call to Action
The wildfires in California are a stark reminder of the unpredictability of natural disasters. As the fires rage on, first responders work tirelessly, often risking their own homes and lives to protect others. Meanwhile, displaced families face uncertainty and loss.
The Tam Ky Project’s efforts, combined with the generosity of the Equipment Finance community, can provide a lifeline to those in need. Whether through monetary donations, physical contributions, or volunteering, every effort counts.
Let’s come together to support our communities and show that, even in the face of disaster, humanity and generosity prevail.
For more information on how to donate or volunteer, visit Tam Ky Project or reach out directly to the team. Together, we can make a difference.
If you or your company have been impacted by the California Wildfires, please reach out to me at rita.garwood@www.monitordaily.com. The Monitor team would like to coordinate efforts to support individuals and companies in the equipment finance community that have been directly impacted by the fires.
