Disney donates $15 million to wildfire relief efforts in Los Angeles
The Walt Disney Company is donating $15 million to rebuilding and relief efforts as the deadly wildfires continue ravaging Southern California.
The company said funds will go towards organizations offering essential services on the ground including the American Red Cross, the Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation, and the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank, and more.
“We’ve been working around the clock to ensure the safety and well-being of our employees, many of whom have been impacted by these fires, and we intend to provide further resources to our Employee Relief Fund to help those facing hardship as a result of this crisis,” the company said in Friday night statement.
They also expressed their thanks to the firefighters and first responders who have been deployed to battle the wildfires.
“While the fires continue to rage and the full extent of the damage won’t be understood for some time, our hearts are with everyone across Southern California who has been affected by the destructive fires, and we urge residents to remain vigilant and follow safety guidance from local officials,” the company said. “We are proud to provide assistance to this resilient and vibrant community in this moment of need.”
Fire crews and first responders are battling several large wildfires including the Palisades Fire in Pacific Palisades, the Eaton Fire near Altadena/Pasadena, the Kenneth Fire near Calabasas/West Hills and more.
At least 11 people were killed as the fast-moving fires destroyed thousands of structures and forced many to flee their homes.
10 homes you can buy for $5,000
Believe it or not, there are actual, standing homes available right now for $5,000.
But buyers can often expect to get what they pay for. Homes at this price point cost almost 98 percent less than the national median home value, which is currently $200,400 according to Zillow. Before taking the leap on a $5,000 fixer-upper, it’s critical to do your research and understand the risks.
These properties are typically sold as-is, and to make them livable, it’s likely buyers will need to shell out some serious cash. You may discover that what you thought was a steal doesn’t seem so great after factoring in the cost of a new foundation, roof, drywall, windows, flooring or other updates.
Find a good home inspector who can carefully examine the property from top to bottom, inside and out. Hire a real estate attorney who can confirm that the transaction is above-board.
Depending on your renovation budget, and the amount of time you’re willing to invest, it’s not impossible to find a hidden gem. In Cleveland, $5,000 can buy a 2,384-square-foot multifamily home. In Laguna Hills, California, it can buy a 500-square-foot condo with community pool access.
If you’re looking to buy a property in this price range, whether as a full-time residence or investment, research the neighborhood and be on the lookout for red flags. Investigate local school performance, crime rates and home values. If you see too many potential problems, it might be better to look elsewhere.
Click ahead to see what kind of home can buy for $5,000 in 10 cities across the country.
Chicago, Illinois
This six-bedroom, two-bathroom house on the south side of Chicago is for sale for $5,000. It last sold in January 2014 for $4,850, about 3 percent less than the current sale price. It was built in 1904 and is about 94 percent less expensive than the area’s median home value of $82,200.
The 1,073-square-foot property is being sold as-is. It has a front porch, fenced-in front yard and two-car garage.
Anderson, Indiana
This two-bedroom, one-bathroom house in Anderson, Indiana — about 40 miles northeast of Indianapolis — is for sale for $5,000. It last sold in January 2016 for $2,200, 56 percent less than the current sale price. It was built in 1945 and is about 93 percent less expensive than the area’s median home value of $76,700.
The 672-square-foot home has been partially gutted by a previous owner. It has a front- and backyard, as well as a gravel driveway for parking.
Jackson, Mississippi
This three-bedroom, one-bathroom house in Jackson, Mississippi is for sale for $5,000. It was built in 1959 and is about 85 percent less expensive than the area’s median home value of $32,900.
The 1,008-square-foot home has a covered carport.
Syracuse, New York
This four-bedroom, two-bathroom house in Syracuse, New York is for sale for $5,000. It was built in 1872 and is about 93 percent less expensive than the area’s median home value of $72,700.
The 1,824-square-foot home has two porches and wood paneling.
Detroit, Michigan
This four-bedroom, 1.5-bathroom house in the Jefferson Chalmers neighborhood of Detroit is for sale for $5,000. It was last sold at a foreclosure auction in September 2012 for an undisclosed price. It was built in 1919 and is about 93 percent less expensive than the area’s median home value of $70,000.
The 1,903-square-foot house is being sold as-is. It has a sunroom, detached two car garage, a fireplace with built-in bookshelves and hardwood floors.
