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LA Wildfires: How You Can Help

Updated - 01/09/2025

The devastating wildfires raging across Los Angeles have displaced thousands of people and caused immense destruction, leaving beloved homes, businesses, and landmarks in ruins. With over 17,000 acres burned in the Pacific Palisades and more than 10,000 in Altadena, firefighters are working tirelessly to contain the blazes and battle flare-ups across the region.

The aftermath of these wildfires has left countless families and individuals in desperate need of assistance. The road to recovery and rebuilding will be long and arduous. If you’re looking to contribute to the relief efforts in Los Angeles, there are numerous ways you can help.

Remember, there are many nonprofits dedicated to providing wildfire relief in Los Angeles. To ensure your donation reaches legitimate and impactful organizations, use tools like Charity Navigator, Candid (formerly GuideStar), and TEOS (tax-exempt organization search) to evaluate them before giving.

Here are some options for you:

Support first responders and provide essential aid

American Red Cross: The American Red Cross and American Red Cross Los Angeles Region has mobilized teams to open shelters, distribute emergency supplies, assist with damage assessment, and help locate missing loved ones. You can make a financial donation or explore volunteer opportunities on their website.
Direct Relief: This organization is working with emergency response agencies and healthcare providers in Los Angeles to provide needed medical resources and other essential aid. You can support their efforts through their website.
The Salvation Army: The Salvation Army is providing shelter, food, emotional support, and other vital services to those displaced by the fires.
Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation: This foundation is raising funds to support the firefighters on the front lines battling the blazes. Donations can provide essential equipment and resources.

Help communities rebuild

California Community Foundation’s Wildfire Relief Fund: This fund supports a range of needs, including shelter, food, financial assistance, and rebuilding efforts. CCF’s Wildfire Recovery Fund supports communities through this time of immediate need and long-term recovery.
GlobalGiving’s Wildfire Relief Fund: This fund provides emergency relief to people and animals, supports firefighters and frontline workers, and addresses long-term recovery needs.
Habitat for Humanity of Greater Los Angeles: This organization helps families rebuild their homes and lives after disasters like wildfires. They offer a variety of services, from emergency repairs to new home construction. You can donate or volunteer your time to support their work. You can donate to their fund set up specifically for the wildfires here.

Provide Food and Shelter

World Central Kitchen: WCK is on the ground in Los Angeles, providing fresh meals and water to first responders and those affected by the fires. To support their mobilization efforts and help provide fresh meals to those displaced by the fires, you can donate here.
Los Angeles Regional Food Bank: The Food Bank is working with partners to distribute food and supplies to those in need. You can donate or volunteer your time.
Airbnb: One of the best ways to support communities who have lost their homes is to open up your own home to those in need. Airbnb lets people offer living accommodations to those who have been displaced. Learn more about the program and how to get involved here.

Support animal rescue efforts

SpcaLA: SpcaLA is providing shelter for pets whose owners have been displaced by the fires. In addition, spacaLA has a special Disaster Animal Response Team (DART) that is dispatching emergency services to provide temporary shelter for animals and front-line veterinary care.
Best Friends Animal Society – Los Angeles: This organization works with shelters and rescue groups across LA to help animals affected by disasters. They provide resources, support, and foster care for displaced pets. You can donate to their efforts on their website here.
Pasadena Humane: Pasadena Humane has taken in over 100 animals displaced by the fires since the evening of January 8. The organization’s biggest need at this time is monetary donations to provide medical care and emergency resources to animals impacted by the fires. You support their efforts by donating here.