Australian firefighters get their own Funko Pop figures to raise funds for animals affected by bushfires

From unrelenting wildfires to heavy rainfalls and flash floods, Australia has been put through a hellish nightmare over the past few months. Large swaths of the country have been devastated since the fire season began in late July last year and according to CNN, over 3,000 homes have been destroyed or damaged. Although State and federal authorities have tirelessly worked to contain the deadly flames with help firefighting assistance from other countries, the damage to wildlife and infrastructure has been staggering. Organizations across the world have launched efforts to help Australia recover from the tragedy, the latest of which is Funko.

Earlier this month, Funko announced a new limited edition figure dedicated to firefighters battling the wildfires. Set to launch in collaboration with PopCultcha, the proceeds from the RSPCA National Bushfire Appeal - Bushfire Heroes Firefighter with Koala Pop! Vinyl Figure will go towards providing assistance to Australian wildlife that has been left devastated by the flames. In a statement announcing the new Pop! Vinyl Figure, Funko said, "In collaboration with PopCultcha, Funko is releasing a limited edition Pop! Firefighter with Koala vinyl figure to help injured and displaced animals who have suffered as a result of the Australia fires."

"Together with our partners, all proceeds from this product will go toward RSPCA National Bushfire Appeal." The RSPCA (Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) are working alongside government and emergency agencies, veterinarians and local authorities to provide much-needed equipment and supplies, emergency care and identifying and assessing injured animals in need of assistance," the statement added. Exclusively available for pre-order from the PopCultcha website, the new figure is priced at $19.99.

While the Funko Pop figures are available for purchase to those outside Australia as well, as the shipping charges could be quite high, those looking to help the RSPCA in its restorative efforts can also donate directly to the charity. "Catastrophic fires are raging across Australia. Our nation is in the midst of a crisis. The fires have already taken so much. Entire communities have been left devastated. The loss of both human and animal life has been unimaginable and heartbreaking. With the bushfire disaster expected to worsen before it improves, our animals remain under threat like never before," the RSPCA explained on its website.

"Across the country, in NSW, SA, Qld, and Vic, we have mobilized our staff, volunteers and resources to provide assistance wherever it is needed. We’re helping members of the public keep their animals safe and providing much-needed equipment and supplies as well as emergency care and boarding where available. Once the active fire zones clear, that’s when our most challenging work begins. The RSPCA, working alongside government and emergency agencies, veterinarians and local authorities, will begin the difficult job of entering affected areas to identify and assess injured animals," it added.

"Our work will continue for months after the fires have ceased. Your help will allow us to continue to respond to emergencies and help us assist animals and communities in need," the charity concluded. You can donate to the RSPCA here.