Oakland Fire Donations: 2 Official Victim Funds Established

OAKLAND, CA — There are now two official funds set up to receive donations for the victims and families of the Oakland warehouse fire.

The first was established on Saturday by the Oakland A’s, who promised to match up to $50,000 in pledges. The Oakland Raiders and Golden State Warriors quickly joined forces with the A’s, each also promising to match $50,000.

Many individuals gave between $5 and $100. Sutter Health pledged $75,000.

>>Donate to A's Oakland Fire Relief Fund

That fund has climbed to more than $300,000 from more than 2,500 donors. Before clicking "Donate Now," some people wanted clarification on how the funds would be distributed. Travis Smith, who works for the YouCaring website that is taking the donations, responded, "The Oakland Athletics are coordinating with Mayor Shaaf's office to make sure funds are only disbursed to the families of those who lost their lives along with individuals who were injured in the fire. They will be acting upon the recommendation of the mayor's office and will take steps to ensure that funds only reach the intended beneficiaries."

A second fund was established by Gray Area Foundation for the Arts.

>> Donate to Gray Area Oakland Fire Relief Fund

According to that fund's statement, "We are forming an oversight committee, talking with Oakland authorities, and will be sure the funds are allocated appropriately to fire victims and with due diligence. There will be public disclosure through the fund page and via Gray Area disclosing how these funds are spent, while also maintaining anonymity for the grieving friends and family members affected by this event. We are waiting on official word from authorities prior to making further decisions but our hope is to provide relief for Funeral, Medical and Health related expenses first and foremost."

Both are registered charities. Gray Area Foundation for the Arts is not rated by charity watchdog Charity Navigator "because it does not meet our criteria of having at least $1 million in revenues." The Oakland A's Community Fund is not rated "because it is a Private Foundation."

The city of Oakland's official web page has links to both donation funds.

In addition, GoFundMe accounts have also been set up for several individuals:

• Michela Angelina Gregory
• Alex Vega
• Alex F. Ghassan
• Andrew Ruiz
• Sara Hoda
• David T. Cline
• Lilo
• Jose Alverez
• Travis Hough
• David Calvera
• Denalda Nicole Renae
• Donna Kellogg
• Brandon Chase Wittenauer (Nex Iuguolo)
• Griffin Madden
• Ara Christina Jo

In addition, Alameda County has reactivated its Disaster Relief Fund to enable its approximately 9,600 employees, along with people in the community, to voluntarily donate funds to benefit the victims of the fire.

Donate to Alameda County Disaster Relief Fund

-Photo credit: Alameda County Sheriff's Office