A devastating series of wildfires near Los Angeles, California, have been called “the most destructive in history,” resulting in unprecedented destruction and at least five deaths, while nearly 137,000 residents remain under evacuation orders or warnings.
The three fires include one at Palisades that has destroyed more than 17,200 acres, consuming residences and businesses, an Eaton fire that has now burned 10,600 acres around Altadena and Pasadena, and a fire at Sunset that has burned 42 acres and led to evacuations in and around Hollywood.
The Los Angeles wildfires were fed by strong winds that helped the fires spread at an unprecedented rate, although firefighters began making significant strides toward containing them by Thursday morning.
Presently, thousands of residents have been displaced, and many have lost their homes and belongings. In such times of great need, there are several charities that are currently supporting the victims of the Los Angeles fires, several of which can be found below.
The California Fire Foundation: This organization partners with local fire agencies and community organizations to offer mid- and long-term assistance to California communities recovering from natural disasters like wildfires. Currently, the foundation is extending direct support to individuals affected by the Palisades Fire.
CAL FIRE Benevolent Foundation: This organization provides financial assistance to firefighters and their families in the event of injury or loss of life. It also offers support to burn victims and their families while promoting research on firefighter health and safety.
California Community Foundation: Active since 1915, this foundation works to strengthen Los Angeles County. Its Wildfire Recovery Fund focuses on underserved and hard-to-reach communities, aiming to provide sustained recovery relief.
World Central Kitchen: Founded by chef José Andrés, this global nonprofit food relief organization is already on the ground in Southern California, aiding first responders and evacuees with meals and resources.
Salvation Army: Through its disaster services fund, the Salvation Army supports evacuees and first responders impacted by California wildfires, and “works in conjunction with government and non-profit agencies to provide food, personal necessities, and shelter to survivors and first responders (i.e. firefighters, police and sheriff’s departments).” The organization delivers emergency relief and long-term recovery assistance to those in need and has set up a special page for donations that can be made for Los Angeles fire victims.
American Red Cross: This organization is staffing evacuation centers and distributing essential supplies to support communities affected by wildfires. To ensure that your donation goes to disaster relief, on the link above scroll down to the section titled “I want to support” and select “Disaster Relief” in the dropdown box below.
Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation: The foundation is accepting donations for its wildfire emergency fund, which aims to provide firefighters with essential tools and supplies needed to combat fires effectively.
League of California Community Foundations: As a coalition of nonprofit organizations, this group is coordinating relief efforts for those affected by the Palisades and Eaton fires. The California Community Foundation highlighted that past fundraising efforts have helped rebuild homes, replace lost belongings, and offer mental health support services.
Anderson Munger Family YMCA: Located in Los Angeles, the YMCA is collecting donations of food, snacks, water, and emergency supplies. The organization has announced on Instagram that it is accepting deliveries at its Koreatown location.
Pasadena Humane Society: The society is also taking donations with a special focus on providing aid in support of pet evacuations in the greater Los Angeles area.
Ventura County Wildfire Relief & Recovery: Urgent financial assistance is being collected by the VCWRR for the many residents being affected by the Los Angeles Fires.
Los Angeles Regional Food Bank: With many displaced individuals whose residences and other resources have been significantly impacted by the fires, the LA Regional Food Bank is collecting donations to help ensure food can be made available for victims.
Sources: Time, CBS News, USA Today
Micah Hanks is the Editor-in-Chief and Co-Founder of The Debrief. He can be reached by email at micah@thedebrief.org. Follow his work at micahhanks.com and on X: @MicahHanks.