Global Solidarity: Taiwan’s $1 Million Donation to Aid Los Angeles Wildfire Relief

Following the devastating wildfires that ravaged Los Angeles County, claiming 29 lives, destroying over 16,000 buildings, and displacing tens of thousands of residents, Taiwan has stepped forward to provide significant relief. On January 16, 2025, Taiwan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs donated $500,000 to the Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation. Simultaneously, the World Taiwanese Chambers of Commerce launched a successful fundraising campaign, collecting over $500,000 to support the Arcadia Fire Department Foundation.

Taiwanese Clash of Cultures Celebrates and Contributes

The Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Los Angeles (TECO-LA) hosted the “Los Angeles Wildfire Relief Donation and Lunar New Year Reception” at its Culture Center. Director General Amino Chi, representing Taiwan’s government, and President Kenneth Wu, representing the World Taiwanese Chambers of Commerce, jointly presented over $1 million to the fire departments of Los Angeles.

Prominent Attendees at the Ceremony

The event was attended by Secretary-General Kenneth Chen of the World Taiwanese Chambers of Commerce, Supervisor Maggie Chang, Honorary President Tom Wu of the Taiwanese Chambers of Commerce of North America, President Karen Chen, Honorary President Joyce Tsai, and Peter Zen, the LA Wildfire Fundraising Initiator of the Taiwanese-American Chamber of Commerce of Greater Los Angeles.

Gratitude from Fire Chief and Representatives

Fire Chief Chen Suen of the Arcadia Fire Department received the donation on behalf of the fire departments. He expressed profound gratitude to Taiwan for their support, emphasizing the magnitude of this disaster and the immediate condolences sent by Taiwan’s President Lai and Vice President Hsiao to the victims. Director General Chi commended the brave firefighters who risked their lives and thanked the World Taiwanese Chambers of Commerce for their efforts in raising funds. He expressed hope for the swift recovery of those affected by the wildfires.

Support from U.S. Officials

U.S. Congresswoman Judy Chu, Congresswoman Laura Friedman, California Assemblymember Mike Fong, Assemblymember Tri Ta, Los Angeles County Supervisor Hilda Solis, and Los Angeles County Supervisor Lindsey Horvath also attended and expressed their gratitude for Taiwan’s support.

California Governor’s Appreciation

California Governor Gavin Newsom sent a letter to Director General Chi, expressing the state’s deepest gratitude for the invaluable support during this critical time. He noted that emergencies know no borders and appreciated Taiwan’s timely assistance.

Los Angeles County Supervisor Kathryn Barger’s Thanks

Los Angeles County Supervisor and Chairwoman Kathryn Barger also sent a letter thanking Taiwan for its partnership and assistance in disaster relief.

Community Efforts from Over 50 Organizations

Southern California, home to the largest overseas Taiwanese community, saw numerous organizations actively contributing to the wildfire relief efforts. These included the Chinese Consolidated Benevolent Association of Los Angeles, Taiwan Center Foundation of Greater Los Angeles, Taiwanese American Scholarship Fund, Global Federation of Chinese Business Women Southern California Chapter, Taiwanese-American Chamber of Commerce of Greater Los Angeles, National Taiwan University Alumni Association of Southern California, Overseas Taiwan Care United Association, Buddhist Tzu Chi Foundation, Buddha’s Light International Association Los Angeles Association, Southern California Taiwanese American Emergency Assistance Association, Hsi Lai Temple Buddhist Monastery in California, Dharma Drum Mountain Los Angeles Center, Joint Chinese University Alumni Association of Southern California, Overseas Community Care Network of Los Angeles, Inland Overseas Chinese Care and Assistance Association, Overseas Community Care Network of Orange County, Hakka Federation of USA, Taiwan Hotel & Motel Association of Southern California, Hacienda Heights Chinese American Association, and Taiwan Benevolent Association of California.

Institute for Asian Crime and Security and China Airlines Corporation America Head Office

Additionally, the Institute for Asian Crime and Security and the China Airlines Corporation America Head Office collaborated with TECO-LA to donate N95 masks and goggles, further reinforcing Taiwan’s commitment to aiding in the recovery efforts.

Conclusion: The Power of Unity in Disasters

The combined efforts of the Taiwan government and diaspora communities highlight the importance of solidarity and support in times of crisis. These donations and initiatives showcase a community united in its commitment to recovery and resilience.

For more information and to learn about ways you can contribute, please visit the Arcadia Fire Department Foundation and World Taiwanese Chambers of Commerce websites. Your support makes a significant difference in the lives of those affected by the wildfires.

We encourage you to share this story on your social media platforms and join us in appreciating the global efforts to aid those impacted by disaster.

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