Social media viewers stunned as influencer shares ‘dystopian’ fire relief effort amid LA wildfires. This incident sparked debate among viewers,
Serena Kerrigan’s beauty product goodie bags for LA fire victims divide opinion
Serena Kerrigan, a New York City influencer, has sparked intense debate after donating beauty product goodie bags to LA fire victims. Her Instagram post showed pink bags filled with skincare and haircare products intended for those affected by the raging fires in Los Angeles.
Kerrigan, 30, explained in her post: “Putting together bags of products to send to LA. If you guys have any stuff you can donate, DM @cocoschiffer.”
However, the gesture quickly divided social media users. Some praised her efforts, while others criticized the choice of products, deeming it trivial in the face of such devastation.
Critics question the relevance of beauty products for fire victims
The beauty product donation didn’t sit well with everyone. A Reddit user, AffectionateRip764, described the effort as “dystopian” and “satirical.”
They wrote, “Seeing this influencer’s response to the devastation in LA by sending goodie bags of picked-over products is incredibly satirical and influencer-age Fahrenheit 451.”
The user also pointed out that fire victims were likely in need of more practical resources, such as food, shelter, and clothing, not luxury skincare.
Others chimed in on the post, voicing similar concerns about the appropriateness of the donation.
Supporters defend Kerrigan’s gesture
Despite the criticism, many supported Kerrigan’s actions, arguing that the gesture, though unconventional, could bring comfort to fire victims.
One commenter wrote, “People lost everything. While these items may not be practical, they can help people feel some level of normalcy as they rebuild.”
Another pointed out that hygiene products are often in demand during crises, making the donation potentially more valuable than critics realized.
Some users noted that the beauty products were leftover from a canceled event and would likely have gone to waste.
One user defended the donation, stating, “Influencers often throw away excess PR boxes. It’s great to see them put these products to good use.”
On person said: Better than sending nothing at all. Some people will moan about anything.
A second wrote: People that feel the need to broadcast their intentions or donations aren’t doing it for the right reasons. It’s all self-serving. And distasteful.
While a third commented: At first glance it’s vapid, but if I’d lost everything I’d be appreciative of receiving some nice skincare products.
Another added: It would be comforting and make me feel better. I like using these kinds of things during my daily routines and getting back to routines is good for one’s mental health after stressful events. Let’s not overlook this gesture or bash it.
Someone else said: Stick a giant bottle of Tito’s in there and make those baskets useful. Everyone needs a good drink when doing a facemask surrounded by ashes.
Kerrigan’s donation could provide emotional support
Supporters also pointed out that small acts of kindness, such as receiving skincare products, could help restore a sense of normalcy. “This could make a few teenage girls in temporary shelters feel normal for even just a few minutes,” one commenter wrote.
Another user emphasized the value of the donation, saying it was a rare example of an influencer doing something practical instead of simply posting on social media. “It’s actually refreshing to see them do something tactical as opposed to just posting,” they said.
The broader context of the LA fires
The controversy over Kerrigan’s donation comes at a time when Los Angeles is reeling from devastating wildfires. More than 180,000 people have been displaced, and at least 16 have died. Over 12,000 structures have been destroyed, and fires continue to ravage the region.
The fires, which began in Pacific Palisades and spread to high-profile neighborhoods like Brentwood, have caused widespread damage. As of now, the Palisades Fire is 11% contained, but more than 23,700 acres of land have already been scorched.
AccuWeather has predicted that these fires could become the most costly wildfire in U.S. history due to their destruction in densely populated, high-value areas.
While some continue to debate the appropriateness of beauty product donations, it’s clear that Kerrigan’s actions have sparked an important conversation.
Regardless of the type of relief, every gesture can play a part in providing comfort to those affected by disaster. Influencers like Kerrigan are in a unique position to use their platform for good, whether through direct donations or by raising awareness.