(October 24, 2007) The California Chamber of Commerce is urging businesses throughout the state to contribute supplies and make donations to help victims of the Southern California fires.

“The fires in Southern California have been devastating to people and businesses in the region. Our hearts go out to those who have been injured and to the families of victims,” said CalChamber President Allan Zaremberg. “While the economic impact of these fires is yet to be determined, we know there are already huge costs in terms of human suffering. As we see news coverage of homes, churches, and places of business being destroyed, it is important that we all step up to help. Because it will take months, perhaps years, to rebuild, I am joining Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger in encouraging California businesses to show leadership in this time of crisis and contribute to assist fire victims and their families.”

Governor Schwarzenegger announced a dedicated telephone line for businesses to call to make large donations of needed supplies including blankets, food, clothing, bottled water, baby food, diapers, and toothbrushes. The dedicated line for business contributions is: (800) 750-2858. Individuals wishing to contribute should call the Red Cross at 1-800-HELP-NOW or visit www.redcross.org, to make donations.

As a result of the Southern California fires, Governor Schwarzenegger has declared a state of emergency in the following seven counties: Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino, San Diego, Santa Barbara and Ventura. President George W. Bush has declared a federal emergency for the same seven Southern California counties, a move that will speed disaster-relief efforts. There are 16 active fires in Southern California, with some 400,000 acres ablaze which has displaced more than one million people.

In the wake of Katrina, CalChamber members gave millions of dollars in donations and contributed needed supplies and services to help hurricane victims during the recovery period.