How to Help Those Affected by the Los Angeles Wildfires
Lend your support by donating, volunteering, and amplifying these organizations.
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As the Los Angeles wildfires continue to rage on, thousands of homes and businesses have been destroyed, and more than 100,000 people have been forced to evacuate the area. The blaze began in the Pacific Palisades on Tuesday and quickly expanded to several nearby areas—including the Hollywood Hills, Pasadena, and Sylmar. So far, the wildfires have taken at least five lives and contributed to hundreds of injuries while also leaving hundreds of thousands without power, according to multiple outlets.
Hollywood has not been spared by the flames, with Paris Hilton, Mandy Moore, Anna Faris, Leighton Meester, and Adam Brody losing their multi-million dollar homes, and iconic landmarks like the Hollywood Sign, Sunset Blvd., and the Getty Center are facing imminent danger. Moore revealed that she was "absolutely numb" by the loss, while Hilton was "heartbroken" after watching her Malibu beach house burn down on TV.
While the cause remains unknown, dry conditions and extreme wind from the Santa Ana Winds have only further fueled the flames, preventing aircraft mobility for firefighters and limiting their defense to the ground. At the moment, the fires remain at zero percent containment.
To help those affected, below is a list of organizations that are providing support to the Los Angeles community.
Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation
The LAFD Foundation, which supports 3,500 firefighters and paramedics, is seeking funds to equip those first responders battling the wildfires with tools and supplies. You can donate directly here.
California Fire Foundation
The California Fire Foundation helps support local fire agencies and communities. Contributions will go toward immediate relief for wildfire victims and long-term support to help rebuild and recover after the devastation. Click here to make a monetary donation.
California Community Foundation's Wildfire Recovery Fund
The California Community Foundation (CCF) aims to rebuild and restore the lives of California’s most underserved areas with its Wildfire Recovery Fund. The fund has supported a diverse range of organizations addressing the needs of those affected, including Native American, Muslim, migrant, and non-native English-speaking communities, as well as food workers, individuals with disabilities, children, and the elderly. Here's a link to donate.
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Dream Center
The Dream Center is serving as an evacuation center for those who had to flee their homes due to the fires. Click to donate or volunteer.
Los Angeles Regional Food Bank
The food bank, which is working with government agencies and other non-profits in response to the fires, is accepting donations of both money and food at its two distribution centers, as well as additional help from volunteers. Help fight hunger with a donation, or sign up to volunteer.
World Central Kitchen
World Central Kitchen is is providing sandwiches and water to evacuated people in need, as well as emergency responders on the frontlines. You can donate directly to their cause, here.
Baby2Baby
The Los Angeles-based nonprofit organization is providing essential items, such as diapers, food, formula, and hygiene products, for children and families who have lost everything in the fire. They collaborate with 470 partner organizations—including schools, hospitals, and shelters. Donate now.
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Canine Rescue Club
The Canine Rescue Club is currently looking for people who are able to foster pets that have been displaced by the wildfires. Click here to volunteer.
Pasadena Humane Society
The Pasadena Humane Society is seeking help. A large number of animals—many with burn injuries—are being evacuated and placed at the shelter. Critical supplies needed are food, water bowls, extra large crates, and blankets. You can drop items off at the shelter's front parking lot, or a monetary donation can be made here.
Los Angeles Equestrian Center
The Los Angeles Equestrian Center is taking in horses who have been displaced by the wildfires, offering a safe refuge away from the flames. Click here to donate.
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