LA Clippers owner Steve Ballmer and his wife Connie are making a major contribution to help their city in a time of crisis. The Ballmer Group announced a $15 million emergency funding donation on Thursday to support wildfire relief efforts in Los Angeles.
The devastating wildfires raging in LA have left many in the community reeling. The Ballmers’ generous donation aims to provide critical aid to those affected. According to the Ballmer Group, the funds will address urgent needs like food, shelter, and support for first responders on the front lines.
“We love L.A. and are committed to supporting the communities affected by the devastating wildfires,” the Ballmers said in a statement.
Focusing Aid on Hard-Hit Areas
The couple emphasized their commitment to helping the historically diverse neighborhood of Altadena, one of the areas most impacted by the fires. A significant portion of the $15 million will go towards recovery efforts in Altadena and other hard-hit communities.
The emergency funding is being allocated to a range of organizations on the ground, including:
- Four wildfire relief funds
- Two emergency shelters
- Two food banks and basic needs groups
- Two first responder support organizations
- Nine groups providing aid to students and families
Long-Term Recovery Commitment
Beyond the initial $15 million, the Ballmers pledged ongoing support for wildfire recovery. “We understand there will be a long road to recovery for the LA region and remain committed to supporting the community,” they said. The Ballmer Group plans to continue working with local organizations to identify and address evolving needs.
Using Sports to Unite and Help
Sports teams and their owners have the unique ability to rally a city together. The Clippers are putting that influence to good use through the Ballmers’ relief efforts. In addition to the emergency funding, the Ballmer Group is organizing “FireAid” – a benefit concert to further support those impacted.
The event will be held January 30th at two venues owned by Ballmer – the Intuit Dome, where the Clippers will soon play, and the Kia Forum. Bringing the community together through music and sports is yet another way the Clippers owner is uniting the city during this difficult time.
As LA begins to heal from the devastation of the wildfires, this $15 million donation by Steve and Connie Ballmer will undoubtedly make a significant impact. In stepping up to help their neighbors and rally the community, the Clippers owner is showing what sports franchises can do when they use their platform for good.
