Mandy Moore responds to backlash over GoFundMe for relatives affected by LA wildfires
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Mandy Moore has found herself at the center of controversy after launching a GoFundMe to support her brother-in-law and sister-in-law who lost their home and belongings in the Los Angeles wildfires.
Moore, whose own Altadena home was left uninhabitable due to the Eaton fire, shared the fundraiser on Instagram, revealing that her relatives “lost their home and everything they own” just weeks before welcoming their first child.
Mandy Moore slams followers questioning whether she's helping her family
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Despite raising $142,000 of its $145,000 goal, Moore faced criticism from some followers questioning why she was not fully funding her family’s recovery.
"People questioning whether we’re helping out our own family or attributing some arbitrary amount of money Google says someone has is NOT helpful or empathetic," Moore responded.
"Of course we are. Kindly F OFF. No one is forcing you to do anything," she said.
The 'This Is Us' star revealed that while the main part of her home remains intact, it is no longer livable.
"We lost Taylor and Griffin’s studio with every instrument and piece of equipment they’ve ever owned," Moore wrote, referencing her husband Taylor Goldsmith and brother-in-law.
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"Everyone we know lost everything. Every house on our street is gone," she added.
The GoFundMe was started by Matthew Komo, husband of actress Hilary Duff, and has witnessed support from over a thousand donors, including actor Zachary Levi, who contributed $10,000.
Los Angeles wildfire crisis continues
The Los Angeles wildfires, fueled by 70 mph Santa Ana winds, have left at least 10 people dead, thousands displaced, and countless homes destroyed.
Among the affected are celebrities like Mandy Moore, Paris Hilton, Leighton Meester, and Ricki Lake, who have all confirmed significant losses.
Governor Gavin Newsom confirmed the deployment of over 1,400 firefighters to combat the blazes, with reinforcements from neighboring states, according to Daily Mail.
Damage estimates are expected to climb, with private firms projecting economic losses of $135 billion to $150 billion.
Mandy Moore's call for compassion
As the wildfires continue to ravage the region, Mandy Moore's response to the criticism highlights the human toll of the disaster.
"Honestly, I’m in shock and feeling numb for all so many have lost, including my family," she shared in a post on January 9.
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"Our community is broken but we will be here to rebuild together. Sending love to all affected and on the front lines trying to get this under control," she added.
