Scottsdale business sends donations for California wildfire victims

SCOTTSDALE, AZ (AZFamily) — A Scottsdale shop is helping those impacted by the Los Angeles wildfires.

The House Warming Project, located in Old Town Scottsdale near Indian School and Scottsdale roads, collected and sent essential items to those in need.

After learning that her friend’s house had burned down and there was a severe need for donations, Julie Backus, founder of the Housewarming Project, decided to do something to help. She posted a video on Instagram about her plan to ship items to California to help the thousands of wildfire victims.

Just hours later, around 150 strangers stopped by her shop with donations, and soon, they had enough items to make care packages for eight families.

This cause is close to Backus’ heart. She is originally from California and lived in Los Angeles for 10 years before moving to Arizona. She hopes those who receive the care packages can feel supported.

“I want these people to open up their care packages and know that the state of Arizona cares about them, that the individuals of Arizona cares about them, and that they’re gonna have a little piece of love and hope right now that they probably don’t have,” said Backus. “I want them to know we’re thinking about them, we’re sending them all the love in the world, and they’re not alone during this really horrific time.”

Backus and the House Warming Project collected donations to make 57 care packages to help 25 families in need. They are not currently looking for donations, and the collection of items is on pause.

The Housewarming Project is also selling “Love for LA” hats for $40, where all proceeds will be donated to wildfire victims.

To learn more about the Housewarming Project, click here.

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