While I understand your concern that every cent counts, especially in times of crisis like the LA wildfires, platforms like ActBlue provide essential infrastructure that facilitates quick and efficient fundraising. This speed is critical when immediate relief is needed.

In emergencies, the reliability and established network of such platforms can significantly boost the response time, ensuring that funds reach the affected communities faster. Yes, there is a processing fee, but the efficiency gained often outweighs the cost in these urgent situations.

Transparency is key. When organizations like the Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation and United Way of Greater Los Angeles use these platforms, they ensure that donors are aware of how their contributions are utilized, including the fees. This transparency helps maintain trust between donors and the relief efforts, which is fundamental for sustained support.

Moreover, these established organizations have a track record of effectively distributing funds to where they're most needed during such crises. The intermediary role played by platforms like ActBlue, while not perfect, supports a more organized relief effort, ensuring that the donations make a tangible difference.

Finally, while direct donations to charities can be more cost-effective, the operational support provided by these platforms can lead to a more impactful and coordinated response, particularly when addressing the scale of devastation seen in wildfires. It's about finding the balance between efficiency and the direct impact of each donation.