'They're not alone': NYC bars raise funds for California wildfire victims
BROOKLYN (PIX11) — Local bars in New York are bringing the community together — hosting fundraisers Wednesday to provide much-needed relief amidst the wildfires that continue to burn in Southern California.
At the Whiskey on Grand in Williamsburg, staff set a $10,000 goal in their efforts to raise money for the Red Cross. They held a charity night filled with raffles and drink specials — bringing the community together to support the cause.
“The world needs love right now,” said attendee Anthony Rangel. “You know, the world’s a little disheveled. A lot of things are happening, and I think something like this, as sad as it is, can bring us together and just show that hope and show that love is still there for everybody, even outside the state.”
The event marks the bar’s second time uniting the community in the face of disaster after their relief efforts back in September for Hurricane Helene. For Alexandra Kemper, who works at the bar, the impact of the fire hits home as she worries for her family members who live in the LA area.
“They’re not just losing a car, some of their belongings Kemper said. “They’re losing their entire home. It’s a huge tragedy and we just want them to know that they’re not alone.”
Meanwhile, over in Greenpoint at Ray’s Hometown Bar, guests saw a $20 donation entry fee and a dollar of every drink sold going to help World Central Kitchen — a nonprofit that serves meals to communities impacted by natural disasters.
“Most people have ties, in some way, to people in LA whether it’s friends, family, people that are close to us,” said Dylan Wells, General Manager at Ray’s Hometown Bar. “So, we just decided as a group ‘what can we do?’ and we’re going to continue coming up with new ideas moving forward.”
Among the attendees was Caitlyn Gomez, a California native now living in Brooklyn.
“I have family members and friends who have been evacuated, who have lost their homes, who have lost all of their things, who have small families,” Gomez said.
As the wildfires rage on, Gomez is hoping events like this offer a bit of ease in the midst of the region’s most destructive wildfires.
“It’s heartbreaking and very surreal, and unimaginable at this point,” she added.
Staff at both bars say they plan to continue their relief efforts even after the fundraisers are over.