OUTPOURING OF SUPPORT FROM CENTRAL COAST RESIDENTS HELPS RAISE OVER $443,000 FOR WILDFIRE RELIEF

Salinas, CA – January 21, 2025 – KSBW 8, Central Coast ABC, Estrella TV Costa Central and the American Red Cross of the Central Coast partnered on a wildfire relief drive that raised $443,303 to support people impacted by the devastation of wildfires in Southern California. Donations came in from individuals, companies and organizations who generously gave money to help those in need.

"KSBW 8 is committed to supporting our communities during crises, and the devastation happening in Southern California resonates deeply for so many of us here on the Central Coast" said President and General Manager Laura Williamson. "We are proud to partner with the American Red Cross to raise funds for those affected by the wildfires. We thank our viewers and community partners for their generous support."

"We're so grateful to the amazing team at KSBW for making this telethon possible and for their incredible partnership. A heartfelt thank you also goes out to all the donors—your generosity is truly making a difference for those impacted by these wildfires," said Michele Averill, CEO of the American Red Cross of the Central Coast.

On Wednesday, January 15, KSBW 8, Central Coast ABC, and Estrella TV Costa Central aired messages throughout the day and aired coverage during each edition of KSBW Action News 8, requesting donations. People are still able to donate by logging on to KSBW.com/RedCross; all funds go directly to the American Red Cross. The funds raised will benefit those in areas impacted by wildfires in Southern California.

About KSBW

KSBW is the California Central Coast’s broadcast/digital media leader, providing news, weather, sports, community service and entertainment on multiple platforms including KSBW 8 NBC, Central Coast ABC, Estrella TV Costa Central, KSBW.com, and the KSBW mobile app. Founded in 1953, KSBW is committed to its mission to serve the Salinas-Monterey-Santa Cruz region with quality local content. The station has been honored with numerous prestigious broadcasting honors including regional RTDNA Edward R. Murrow Awards for “Best Newscast” and regional Emmy’s, and Associated Press Awards for “Breaking News Coverage.” KSBW is owned by Hearst Television, a wholly owned subsidiary of Hearst, a leading media company whose global holdings include 35 television stations. Follow us on Facebook (ksbw8), X (@ksbw), and Instagram (ksbw_8).

About Hearst Television

Hearst Television owns and/or operates 35 television and two radio stations serving 27 media markets across 39 states reaching 24 million U.S. television households. Through its partnership with nearly all major networks, Hearst Television distributes national content over more than 120 video channels including programming from ABC, NBC, CBS, CW, MY Net, MeTV, Estrella and more. The radio stations are leaders in Baltimore news/talk and rock music listenership. Its Hearst Media Production Group unit produces original programming across linear and streaming platforms for domestic and international distribution. Its Very Local app, free to download on household OTT devices and available across popular streaming services, offers 24/7 access to local news, weather and an array of local and regional programming. 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.

About the American Red Cross

The American Red Cross shelters, feeds, and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies about 40 percent of the nation's blood; teaches skills that save lives; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a not-for-profit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org/norcalcoastal or find us on social media.