Sacramento, CA – August 28, 2020 – KCRA 3, My58 and the California Gold Country Region of the American Red Cross partnered on a disaster relief drive that raised nearly $1,000,000 to support people impacted by the devastating wildfires in California. Donations came in from thousands of callers and companies who generously gave money to help those in need.
1,080 structures have been destroyed and at least five people have died in wildfires that have chewed through hundreds of thousands of acres in five Northern California counties. The fires, called the LNU Lightning Complex, have consumed 371,249 acres and continue to threaten more than 30,000 structures. The complex is now the third largest wildfire incident in California history, according to Cal Fire records.
“KCRA 3 and My58 know that serving our community as a local broadcaster, is to not only provide news coverage, but to also support it,” said KCRA 3 and KQCA My58 President and General Manager, Ariel Roblin. “We know how compassionate our community is and we’re grateful we can help showcase their generosity, even when many are struggling themselves. Giving is a part of healing and together we will rebuild and get stronger. It’s a true privilege to serve such a generous community.”
"I am impressed by how KCRA has once again pulled out all of the stops to make this telethon a rousing success, and I am humbled by the generosity and compassion that our community always shows when disaster strikes", said Gary Strong, CEO, California Gold Country Region of the American Red Cross.
“We are truly humbled by the tremendous outpouring of support for our neighbors in need,” KCRA 3 and KQCA news director Derek Schnell said. “While the views of the wildfire devastation are heartbreaking, this effort is a reminder that Californians are always there for each other. We offer a big thank you to those who are making a difference as families rebuild their lives and we will be here to share those stories of recovery.”
KCRA 3 and My58 did live cut-ins throughout the day and had coverage during newscasts asking for donations. People are still able to donate by logging on to KCRA.com, all funds go directly to the American Red Cross. The funds raised will benefit those in areas impacted by the California Wildfires.
About KCRA 3
KCRA 3, a Hearst Television station, went on the air September 3, 1955. It was the first television station in the Sacramento Valley capable of color transmission, use of videotape and the first to broadcast in HD. The station's involvement and dedication to responsible reporting is embodied in their slogan, "Where the News Comes First®." KCRA 3 is the recipient of multiple Emmy and Edward R Murrow awards. KCRA 3’s website address is www.kcra.com.
About Hearst Television
Hearst Television owns and operates 34 television and two radio stations serving 26 media markets across 39 states reaching over 21 million U.S. television households. Through its partnership with nearly all of the major networks, Hearst Television distributes national content over nearly 70 video channels including programming from ABC, NBC, CBS, CW, MY Net, MeTV, This TV, Estrella and more. The radio stations are leaders in Baltimore news/talk and rock music listenership. Hearst Television is recognized as one of the industry's premier companies and has been honored with numerous awards for distinguished journalism, industry innovation, and community service. Hearst Television is a wholly owned subsidiary of Hearst.