The CDA Foundation on Monday launched the Southern California Wildfire Relief Fund and is now accepting tax-deductible donations from colleagues, family, friends, patients and members of the greater dental community who wish to support the safety, well-being and recovery of dentists and dental staff who are impacted by the devastating wildfires that continue to burn in Los Angeles County.
Individual dentists, dental staff and dental society staff are encouraged to apply through April 7 for the Foundation’s Disaster Relief Grant for assistance with immediate and emergency needs resulting from the fires.
As of Jan. 16, 29 dentists in the affected region had reported claims to The Dentists Insurance Company. CDA President Max Martinez, DDS, says that number is expected to rise as reports continue to come in.
“Given the extent of the loss and damage, I imagine all of us know someone who could use all the help they can get — now and through the coming months,” Dr. Martinez said.
The Palisades and Eaton fires, the largest of the five active wildfires, both broke out Jan. 7 and together have killed at least 24 people, destroyed more than 12,000 structures, consumed over 37,000 acres and forced more than 150,000 residents to evacuate. Many of the roughly 85,000 people who remain under evacuation orders are seeking shelter, and evacuation warnings are still in place for tens of thousands.
“Our dental colleagues and their families have a long road to recovery ahead, but the dental community is a generous and closely connected one,” said Lindley Zerbe, DDS, chair of CDA’s Board of Component Representatives and member of the Monterey Bay Dental Society. “We are all working together to provide support, including through our wildfire response and recovery resources, the Foundation’s Wellness Program, one-to-one guidance on insurance concerns and through this disaster relief fund. Your tax-deductible donation, in any amount, will make a difference.”
CDA and subsidiaries, local dental societies and the greater dental community have a long history of supporting the California dental community with funding, targeted resources and even operatory and equipment loans during challenging times, including during past wildfire disasters that destroyed dental offices and displaced dental team members.
“The CDA Foundation is a philanthropic outlet not only for CDA but also for our entire profession of dentistry that is so deeply committed to giving back to the community,” said Richard Graham, DDS, CDA Foundation Board chair. “We know the dental team is a closely connected one, so our Disaster Relief Grant is open to every individual member of that team who needs assistance as a result of these catastrophic fires.”
California dentists, dental assistants, dental hygienists, dental business office staff and laboratory technicians who are currently employed in the dental field, as well as dental society staff members, are encouraged to review the eligibility criteria and apply for the Foundation’s Disaster Relief Grant Program.
Donated dental kits will reach four nonprofit organizations
CDA has donated dental kits to four community services organizations — the Westchester Family YMCA, the Special Needs Network, Hope of the Valley and New Revelation Baptist Church — and is working with Henry Schein to develop a separate supplies relief fund. CDA will share more information on that effort when details are released.
“I am heartbroken by the devastation caused by the wildfires that have profoundly impacted our beloved city and community of Los Angeles,” said Karin Irani, ADA 13th District Trustee and a practicing dentist in Los Angeles. “This tragedy feels deeply personal as I hear about so many family members and friends who have lost their homes and offices. However, I am greatly moved by the incredible generosity and solidarity within our community, as people come together to support one another — whether by offering lodging, financial assistance, or simply checking in to provide comfort and care.”
Ways to help and receive help
Donate to the CDA Foundation’s Southern California Wildfire Relief Fund.
Apply for the CDA Foundation’s Disaster Relief Grant.
Use wildfire response and recovery resources developed for dentists by CDA and TDIC.
Get mental health and wellness support through the CDA Foundation’s Wellness Program.
Learn about tax relief for California wildfire victims (IRS)
If you are a TDIC policyholder who has been impacted by the fires, file a claim.
Call 877.269.8844 to speak to a TDIC analyst about your insurance concerns even if you’re not a current policyholder.