Ripple Aids LAFD During California Wildfire Crisis

Ripple and MoonPay have joined forces to assist California in its fight against devastating wildfires.

Together, they donated $50,000 in RLUSD stablecoin to the Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation (LAFD), aiming to support first responders who are working tirelessly to protect lives and property.

Ripple Showcase Crypto’s Potential in California Wildfire Relief

Ripple announced the collaboration on January 10, highlighting its commitment to aiding LAFD’s efforts during this critical time. Eric Van Miltenburg, a senior executive at Ripple, expressed heartfelt sentiments about the donation, emphasizing the importance of standing by those who risk their lives to protect others.

“The wildfires across California have caused such devastation — our hearts are with those affected. Grateful to see Ripple & MoonPay contributing to relief efforts supporting LAFDFoundation during an unimaginable time for so many,” Miltenburg said.

Meanwhile, the LAFD expressed gratitude on social media, thanking Ripple for its generosity during a critical period. The non-profit acknowledged the company’s effort to “give back to our LAFD heroes” as they face immense challenges in containing the fires.

The ongoing wildfires, fueled by strong winds and dry weather, have devastated areas such as Pacific Palisades, Pasadena, and Calabasas.

Over 200,000 residents have been forced to evacuate their homes, creating an urgent need for emergency support. Despite resource shortages, the Los Angeles Fire Department has remained relentless in combating the flames to protect lives and property.

Ripple’s donation, part of its Ripple Impact initiative, provides critical relief for these efforts. Since its inception, the program has focused on using Ripple’s resources to create global change.

The company has donated over $170 million to nonprofits, charities, and educational programs in over 80 countries, demonstrating its commitment to making a difference beyond the crypto industry.

The recent donation also highlights the growing use of cryptocurrency in addressing real-world challenges. Over the years, platforms like The Giving Block have enabled over $200 million in crypto donations to charitable causes, while leaders in the industry, including Ethereum co-founder Vitalik Buterin, have promoted the use of digital assets for disaster relief and health research.