How to Help Los Angeles Wildfire Victims: Where to Donate

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Los Angeles is experiencing an unprecedented and devastating crisis due to the impact of several simultaneous wildfires in areas such as Palisades, Eaton, Hurst, Kenneth, and Lidia.

The incident began on January 7, reportedly triggered by a combination of ecological and meteorological factors such as dry vegetation (exacerbated by climate change) and the intensification of the Santa Ana desert winds. These conditions create a perfect storm for the outbreak of wildfires, even though it’s outside the usual wildfires season.

As of now, 10 people have passed away. However, investigators warn that the death toll could rise once they gain access to all affected areas. Tens of thousands of people have been evacuated, and many have lost their homes, including celebrities such as Paris Hilton, Leighton Meester and Adam Brody, Billy Crystal, Jane Atkin, Sarah Lee, among others.

In the face of this incredible tragedy, many are wondering how and where they can help victims of the Los Angeles wildfires.

How to Help with the Southern California Wildfires

The most important thing is to stay informed about the available options for donating to avoid potential fraud or scams. Unfortunately, when help is needed the most, attempts at deceit are also common. Charity Navigator and GuideStar provide verified information about several organizations assisting with crises like the Los Angeles wildfires.

The Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation is requesting donations for its wildfire emergency fund. Contributions will be used to provide firefighters with the tools and supplies they need to combat the wildfires.

GoFundMe has created and centralized all verified GoFundMe pages related to the wildfires in Southern California. The company states they will continue updating and adding new initiatives. Additionally, they have launched the 2025 Wildfire Relief Fund, which will “go directly to people impacted who are seeking help through GoFundMe fundraisers, as well as nonprofit organizations on the ground providing relief.”

Organizations to Donate to in Los Angeles

Further information will help guide donations to organizations making a direct impact. Stay updated through reliable sources to ensure contributions reach those in need.

• American Red Cross: it has opened emergency shelters to provide shelter, food, water, health, and emotional support services to those affected by the wildfires.
• All Power Books: it’s a community-based bookstore and resource center in Los Angeles. During the wildfire crisis, they have been organizing mutual aid efforts, including distributing supplies and providing support to affected individuals.
• Baby2Baby: it’s providing essentials for displaced families affected by the wildfires.
• Bike Oven: it’s a community bicycle repair space in Los Angeles. In response to the wildfire crisis, they have been assisting by offering transportation support and delivering supplies to affected areas.
• California Community Foundation: it supports communities through intermediate recovery and long-term resilience efforts, aiming to rebuild and restore the lives of California’s most affected and underserved populations.
• California Fire Foundation: it provides financial assistance to both firefighters and victims, supporting communities affected by natural disasters.
• Canine Rescue Club: it’s dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating dogs in need. During the wildfire crisis, they have been actively involved in rescuing pets from affected areas and providing them with shelter and care.
• Community Organized Relief Effort (CORE): it’s a crisis response organization that has been mobilizing resources and personnel to assist with relief efforts during the Los Angeles wildfires, providing support to affected communities.
• Direct Relief: it provides N-95 masks, medicine, and other resources to healthcare agencies and first responders in wildfire-affected communities across California.
• Dolce Glow: it’s a beauty brand based in Los Angeles, has been contributing to wildfire relief efforts by organizing fundraisers and donating a portion of their proceeds to support affected communities.
• Escalemos: it’s a climbing community organization in Los Angeles. In response to the wildfires, they have been coordinating volunteer efforts to assist with relief operations and providing support to those impacted.
• International Medical Corps: it’s a global humanitarian organization. During the Los Angeles wildfire crisis, they have been deploying medical volunteers and providing emergency health services to affected populations.
• Lagartijas Climbing Crú: it’s a local climbing group in Los Angeles. In light of the wildfires, they have been organizing community support initiatives, including fundraising and supply drives for those affected.
• League of California Community Foundations: it coordinates efforts among various community foundations across the state. In response to the wildfire crisis, they have been facilitating funding and resources to support relief and recovery initiatives.
• Los Angeles Regional Food Bank: it’s been providing food assistance to individuals and families affected by the wildfires, ensuring access to essential nutrition during the crisis.
• Pasadena Humane: it’s assisting animals injured or displaced by the wildfires, providing shelter, medical care, and reunification services for pets and their owners.
• Salvation Army: it supports evacuees and first responders with emergency relief and long-term assistance during the wildfire crisis.
• Set Active: it’s an activewear brand based in Los Angeles, has been participating in wildfire relief efforts by raising awareness and donating a portion of their sales to support affected communities.
• The People’s Struggle San Fernando Valley: it’s a grassroots organization that has been organizing mutual aid and support for individuals affected by the wildfires, including distributing supplies and providing assistance to displaced residents.
• United Way of Greater Los Angeles: it has established a Wildfire Response Fund focusing on longer-term recovery efforts to support members of local communities affected by the wildfires.
• Widows, Orphans & Disabled Firefighters Fund: it provides assistance to firefighters and their families in times of need. During the wildfire crisis, they have been offering support to those injured or affected in the line of duty.
• World Central Kitchen: it delivers immediate food relief to evacuees and responders during the wildfires, ensuring access to nutritious meals for those impacted.
• YMCA Koreatown locations: they have been providing support to the community during the wildfire crisis, including offering shelter, resources, and assistance to those affected.

These organizations are making significant contributions to immediate relief efforts and long-term recovery for individuals and communities impacted by the Los Angeles wildfires.