Los Angeles is facing a huge disaster as wildfires erupted on Tuesday, January 7. The fires were fueled by strong winds and dry weather. So far, 10 people have lost their lives, and officials fear that number could go up as the fires continue. Thousands of families have been forced to leave their homes, with nearly 180,000 people under evacuation orders or warnings.
The fires, like the massive Palisades Fire and the fast-spreading Eaton Fire, have destroyed homes, businesses, and entire neighborhoods. Firefighters are working around the clock, but many of the fires are still barely under control. Experts say the dry conditions and extreme weather are making things even worse, and it doesn’t help that just a few months ago, Mayor Karen Bass approved a $17 million budget cut to the fire department.
This has been a heartbreaking time for so many people in California and for friends and family across the country. If you’re wondering how you can help, here’s what you need to know.
How To Help
People have flocked to the internet to share different resources for people in need. For starters, you can share infographics letting people know what areas in Los Angeles to evacuate as well as shelters they can evacuate to. If you’re in L.A. yourself, there are plenty of organizations that need volunteers to help pass out meals, pack groceries, and distribute supplies to those in need. You can even foster displaced animals through organizations like the Canine Rescue Club, as shelters find ways to save as many animals as possible.
Where To Donate
And of course, sometimes the best way to help an organization directly (especially if you’re not in L.A. yourself) is to send a donation. Here are organizations you can donate to in order to help victims of the fires:
American Red Cross
The Red Cross provides emergency shelters, meals, and emotional support to displaced families. They also distribute relief supplies like hygiene kits and blankets to those in need.
Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation
This foundation supports firefighters by providing essential equipment, safety gear, and resources to aid their efforts in controlling wildfires and protecting communities.
Baby2Baby
Baby2Baby helps families with young children by distributing diapers, clothing, and other essentials to those who have lost their homes or belongings in the fires.
Project Camp
Project Camp sets up pop-up day camps for children displaced by the wildfires, offering a safe space for kids to play, learn, and process the trauma while their families focus on recovery.
Los Angeles Regional Food Bank
The food bank provides meals and groceries to individuals and families affected by the fires, ensuring no one goes hungry during this crisis.
Mask Bloc LA
This organization distributes N95 masks to help residents and first responders protect themselves from hazardous smoke and poor air quality caused by wildfires. You can donate to their Venmo (@MaskBlocLA).
Pasadena Humane Society
The Pasadena Humane Society offers shelter, medical care, and rescue services for pets and animals displaced or injured in the wildfires.
Core response
Core Response works on the ground to provide immediate relief, including clean water, temporary shelters, and hygiene supplies, to wildfire survivors.
Wildfire Recovery Fund
This fund collects donations to support long-term recovery efforts, including rebuilding homes, restoring communities, and helping victims regain stability after the fires.
GoFundMe
Whether you stumble upon a friend’s GoFundMe on social media or happen upon any crowdfunding resource that a stranger in L.A. shares, you always have the option to donate directly to them. A lot of people were (and will continue to be) personally affected by these fires — any and all help is needed.
If you’re looking for more resources, you can check out this comprehensive list provided by Mutual Aid LA Network (MALAN).
