Some Southern California residents are still displaced months after the L.A. wildfires forced residents to flee homes and businesses. 

When the fires were raging, international disaster relief agency Operation USA leaned on its relationship with Torrance, Calif.-based Pelican Products, a manufacturer of highly regarded protective cases, for needed coolers, backpacks and flashlights.

“Pelican and Operation USA have had a long-standing relationship,” Operation USA coordinator Tony Shannon said earlier this year. “Throughout different disasters we are very grateful that they were able to donate a lot of different wonderful items that actually make a difference in people’s lives.”

Operation USA, based in L.A., relies on donations to help communities overcome natural disasters, disease, violence and poverty. 

The Southern California wildfires are estimated to have caused between $28 billion to $53.8 billion in property damage. The U.S. Geological Survey reported the fires burned 40,000 acres, destroyed more than 12,300 structures and prompted evacuation orders and warnings for as many as 200,000 residents. 

 “It was obviously something we haven’t seen before,” Shannon said. “We have seen fires in Los Angeles and Northern California, but this was like the perfect storm — or perfect fire. We had winds up to 90 miles an hour, so it just fueled the fire and brought in so much oxygen that it spread so quickly. 

“We were watching, like everybody else on TV. You saw thousands of people being displaced and evacuated from their homes, and we just tried to figure out the best way to help these people as quickly as possible.” 

After receiving supplies from Pelican Products and other partners, Operation USA delivered relief to shelters, schools and distribution centers that were set up in the Pasadena area.

“We were doing a distribution in Pasadena at a local elementary school and had some items that were donated by Pelican at that site,” Shannon said. “Most of the people that attended literally lost everything. They left their houses after almost losing their lives, they had to grab their children and run out the door. 

“We were able to give them nice backpacks to carry their goods compared to other bags that may tear or rip,” Shannon said. “Items like these are important to distribute to people affected because they’ll actually use them and utilize them for months to come.”  

Shannon added: “(Pelican has) always reached out to us. I don’t think there’s been one time that we have had to reach out to them for aid. They are always willing to help whether it’s domestic or international.”  

Platinum Equity acquired Pelican Products in 2021.