How You Can Help: Join Southern California’s Wildfire Relief Efforts Today

The fires raging across Southern California have brought devastation and despair, claiming at least 10 lives and leaving thousands displaced. With wind-driven flames consuming over 19,000 acres in Pacific Palisades and 13,000 acres in Altadena, countless homes and communities have been destroyed, and the battle is far from over. Mandatory evacuations have forced over 180,000 people to flee, while many others brace for worsening conditions as dry winds continue to fuel the flames.

UPDATE:

As of January 13, 2025, the Palisades Fire has burned over 23,000 acres, resulting in more than 5,000 homes destroyed and eight deaths. The Eaton Fire has torched over 14,000 acres, claimed at least 16 lives, and left parts of Pasadena in ruins. 💔

Additionally, the total area burned by the Palisades, Eaton, and Hurst fires now exceeds 38,629 acres. The fight is far from over.

Amid this crisis, we’re reminded of the strength of community and the power of collective action. Los Angeles residents, organizations, and even celebrities are coming together to provide relief and hope to those affected.

If you’re looking to make a difference, here are several ways to help:

Habitat LA Wildfire Relief Fund

Habitat for Humanity of Greater Los Angeles has a long history of helping wildfire-affected families rebuild their homes. Their Wildfire Relief Fund provides essential support to families whose lives have been shattered by these fires. Your contributions help provide shelter, stability, and hope as they work to recover and rebuild their lives from the ground up.

Every donation makes a difference. Visit Habitat LA Wildfire Relief Fund to support their efforts.

Additional Ways to Support:

Apart from monetary donations, there are other opportunities to contribute — whether it’s through volunteer work, spreading awareness, or offering supplies. We’ve compiled a list of other organizations you can connect with to make a difference:

• American Red Cross: Provides emergency assistance, shelter, and blood donations.

• Direct Relief: Provides medical aid and essential supplies.

• California Community Foundation: Focuses on long-term recovery needs.

• Team Rubicon: Assists with debris cleanup and recovery efforts.

• World Central Kitchen: Provides meals to evacuees and first responders.

• The Humane Society of the United States: Assists with animal rescue and sheltering.

• Salvation Army: Offers emergency disaster services, including food and shelter.

Important Note: This list is not exhaustive, and the needs and priorities of organizations can change rapidly. Always check their websites or social media for the most up-to-date information on how to best support their efforts.

Fire personnel respond to homes destroyed while a helicopter drops water as the Palisades Fire grows in Pacific Palisades, Calif. on Jan. 7, 2025. © David Swanson/AFP via Getty Images

Support Firefighters

California Fire Foundation provides emotional and financial assistance to firefighters and their families. Learn more at cafirefoundation.org.

Volunteer or Donate Supplies

Many local shelters are in urgent need of supplies, including non-perishable food, water, blankets, and clothing. Contact your nearest shelter or visit caloes.ca.gov for more information on how you can help.

Raise Awareness

Share reliable information about evacuation centers and donation links on social media. Encourage your network to contribute to relief efforts.

Human Evacuation Shelters:

For those needing safe evacuation for themselves, here are some options:

• Westwood Recreation Center: 1350 South Sepulveda Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90025

• El Camino Real Charter High School: 5440 Valley Circle Blvd, Woodland Hills, CA 91367

• Pasadena Convention Center: 300 E Green St, Pasadena, CA 91101

Animal Evacuation Shelters:

For those looking to assist with animal evacuations during this crisis, there are several shelters in Los Angeles, California:

• Los Angeles Equestrian Center: 480 W Riverside Dr, Burbank, CA 91506

• Pierce College Equestrian Center: 7100 El Rancho Drive, Woodland Hills, CA

• Rose Bowl Stadium: 1001 Rose Bowl Dr, Pasadena, CA 91103

• Agoura Animal Care Center: 29525 Agoura Rd, Agoura Hills, CA 91301

• Pasadena Humane Society: 361 S Raymond Ave, Pasadena, CA 91105

Important Notes:

This information may change rapidly. Always check with local authorities (e.g., fire departments, emergency management agencies) for the latest updates on animal evacuation shelters and any changes to their locations or availability.

For Up-to-date Information & Alerts:

• Los Angeles Fire Department: Follow @losangelesfiredepartment on social media and visit LAFD.org/alerts.

• WatchDuty App: This app provides real-time updates with maps. Download it on your mobile app store.

• Ready L.A. County: Register for phone, email, and text alerts at ready.lacounty.gov/emergency-notifications.

For Help and Support:

• LAFD Foundation: This registered nonprofit organization offers assistance and support during emergencies. Follow @lafdfoundation on social media.

For Weather Alerts:

• National Weather Service (NWS): Download the NWS app for real-time weather alerts. Follow @nws on social media.

Resources for Californians Impacted by Los Angeles Fires:

Access essential resources and information immediately at ca.gov/LAfires.

Remember:

Stay informed and follow the instructions of local authorities.
Have an emergency plan in place and practice it regularly.
Be prepared to evacuate if necessary.

The #LAFires have tested the resilience of our community, but in times like these, we come together to lift each other up. By joining the relief efforts—whether through donations, volunteerism, or spreading awareness—we show the strength and unity that defines us. Every act of kindness, big or small, makes a lasting impact. Let’s support those in need and help them find hope again.