Australia Wildfire Fundraiser Collects $20 Million in 48 Hours

Australia is undergoing one of the worst wildfires of its history and as of now, 1200 homes have been destroyed, 24 people killed and millions of animals burnt due to the catastrophe. The capital city Canberra which is the most affected area has been termed as worst in the world for air quality and locals have been asked to stay inside homes.

Albeit that rescue and fire fighting missions are underway, the 200 fires across New South Wales have affected millions of acres of land, resulting in the displacement of both human and animal life. Victoria and New South Wales currently also face power outages on a large scale.

Seeing the gravity of the situation that has intensified since September, Australian comedian Celeste Barber initiated a Facebook fundraiser to raise money for fire services in the affected states.

“Please help any way you can. This is terrifying,” Celeste wrote on her Facebook as she initiated the cause.

So far the fundraiser has collected over Australian $20 million with millions of people coming forward to help those in need. Among the donors are celebrities Nicole Kidman and singer Pink who have pledged $500,000.

As per Celeste, whose family was also evacuated from NSW, the donated money would go to NSW Rural Fire Service – a government-funded agency staffed by volunteers – and the Brigades Donations Fund, which directs charitable donations to fire brigades.

Prime Minister Scott Morrison – who has canceled his January 13 tour to India – has also called in 3,000 reserve troops for the rescue missions. On the other hand, Singapore and Papua Guinea have offered military help and New Zealand’s three Air Force helicopters are enroute to Victoria and NSW.

As per the latest development, the expected rainfall has begun in Canberra and surrounding regions which will help control the fires.