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Former Los Angeles mayoral candidate Rick Caruso is pledging $5 million to the Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation in the wake of deadly wildfires and “budget deficits” that left the department “under-resourced.”
Caruso, who is a real estate developer, said the money can be used at the discretion of the LAFD Foundation so the department can continue its “heroic work” as wildfires remain active in the Los Angeles area.
“The devastation to our city and community is unthinkable. The colossal efforts of our Los Angeles Fire Department cannot be overstated, and lives, homes, and businesses have been saved thanks to their unwavering commitment to fighting a good fight. But this fight is far from over,” Caruso wrote on X. “Due to budget deficits in the Los Angeles Fire Department, which left them under-resourced, the inconceivable has become reality.”
He has also asked for those with the means to donate to help him reach his goal of $20 million overall for the foundation.
“This funding will ensure essential equipment reaches our emergency responders, including structure fire helmets, personal protective equipment, bulldozers, and multi-functional fast response vehicles that are utilized in both firefighting and medical triage,” Caruso wrote.
He said the donations will not only send “critical support to the front lines,” but it will protect the LA area from “further catastrophe and hopefully prevent another one in the future.”
Caruso added that the outpouring of support amid the devastating fires, which have killed at least 24 people and destroyed more than 12,000 structures, gives him hope.
“My family and I are so grateful for all this city has given us and we will always stand shoulder to shoulder with fellow Angelenos,” he wrote.
