Wildfires in Los Angeles have left devastation in their wake, displacing thousands of people and causing widespread damage to homes and infrastructure. With neighborhoods engulfed by flames and lives upended, the need for assistance has never been greater.
While watching the tragedy unfold can feel overwhelming, there are many ways to help. Donations, volunteer work, and awareness campaigns all play an important role in supporting communities affected by disasters. Below, we’ve compiled a list of organizations and initiatives providing relief in this distressing time.
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California Fire Foundation: The California Fire Foundation collaborates with local fire departments and community organizations to provide assistance to those affected by wildfires. Their work includes direct support for victims and supplying resources for emergency response teams. Donations can be made through their official website.
Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation: Firefighters are on the frontlines battling these intense blazes. The Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation seeks financial contributions to their wildfire emergency fund, which is used to purchase tools, equipment, and resources necessary to contain the fires effectively.
Team Rubicon: This veteran-led organization provides hands-on support for communities impacted by disasters. Their Greyshirt volunteers assist with debris removal, shelter setup, and feeding displaced individuals. Donations help fund these critical operations. You can donate to support their efforts here.
American Red Cross: The Red Cross offers food, shelter, medical care, and emotional support to evacuees. They are accepting monetary contributions via their website, or by calling (800) 733-2767 or texting REDCROSS to 90999.
California Community Foundation: Their Wildfire Recovery Fund focuses on assisting underserved communities during recovery. Contributions are used for long-term aid, especially in marginalized areas that face additional challenges during natural disasters. The organization is accepting donations online and via mail.
GoFundMe Wildfire Relief Hub: GoFundMe has created a centralized hub for verified fundraising campaigns related to the Los Angeles wildfires. Donations can support families, small businesses, and community recovery efforts directly. Also, there's a Wildfire Relief Fund that sends cash grants to individuals, small businesses, nonprofits, and communities.
World Central Kitchen: Chef José Andrés’ World Central Kitchen has been distributing meals to both first responders and affected residents in Los Angeles. Contributions go toward maintaining these essential food programs in disaster zones. Their website accepts donations to support its efforts to provide food and water to those in need.
Los Angeles Regional Food Bank: This food bank is supplying meals to those displaced by the fires and collaborating with nonprofits to distribute essential items. You can donate money or food at their distribution centers, or sign up to volunteer. Find more information about their work here.
Mercy Chefs: Mercy Chefs specializes in delivering restaurant-quality meals to victims, first responders, and volunteers. They have already provided millions of meals worldwide and continue to expand their efforts during crises like these. Click here to learn more.
Canine Rescue Club: This organization is temporarily fostering dogs displaced by the fires. They are actively seeking volunteers in Los Angeles to house pets and are also raising funds for the Palisades Fire Canine Relief Fund, which covers medical care and emergency shelter.
Pasadena Humane: Pasadena Humane has taken in hundreds of animals during the crisis and is helping with evacuations. Donations can be made online, and items like blankets, crates, and food can be dropped off at their facilities.
Animal Wellness Foundation: The foundation is housing and feeding pets left behind during evacuations. They’ve repurposed a vet hospital in Marina Del Rey to provide care and are accepting donations to continue their efforts. You can donate directly here.
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Friends in Deed: This Pasadena-based nonprofit is aiding individuals experiencing homelessness as a result of the devastating wildfires. Their relief efforts include providing meals, safe shelter, and essential services for those affected by the fires. You can contribute to these initiatives by visiting the organization's website to donate.
The Sidewalk Project: Focused on unhoused populations, the Sidewalk Project offers shelter and supplies to those impacted by the wildfires. Donations and supply drop-offs to support these efforts online are welcome.
Airbnb.org: In partnership with 211 LA, Airbnb.org is offering free temporary housing to evacuees. Homeowners can volunteer to host displaced individuals and financial donations are also accepted to support this initiative on the organization's website.
SoCal Fire Fund: This fund, created through a partnership between the CAA Foundation and CORE, is focused on long-term community recovery. Donations go toward initiatives that aid students, school staff, and families affected by the wildfires. You can contribute to the fund right here.
Direct Relief: Direct Relief is supplying N95 masks, medical aid, and other resources to first responders and residents. Donations to their wildfire response fund go directly to areas in urgent need.
Feeding America: Working with government agencies and nonprofits, Feeding America distributes meals and essential supplies to those displaced by the fires. Contributions help ensure these efforts continue without interruption. Click here to learn more.
Baby2Baby: This nonprofit provides essentials like diapers, formula, and hygiene products to families impacted by the wildfires. Their Disaster Relief and Emergency Response Program is accepting donations to expand their outreach.
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In addition to the organizations listed above, many smaller groups and local initiatives are working tirelessly to bring relief. For a more comprehensive list of resources, visit the Mutual Aid Los Angeles Network’s spreadsheet. From donating supplies to volunteering your time, every bit of effort helps ease the burden on affected communities.
The wildfires in Los Angeles are a reminder of the strength and compassion needed in times of crisis. Let’s come together to support those in need and help rebuild lives in the aftermath of this devastating event.
