The Los Angeles wildfires of January 2025 have left a heartbreaking trail of destruction across Southern California. Tens of thousands of acres have been scorched, over 10,000 buildings lost, and at least 10 lives sadly cut short. Entire neighborhoods lie in ruins, forcing more than 180,000 people to leave their homes and brace for the worst.
The financial impact—estimated at a staggering $135 to $150 billion—adds another layer of strain to this already overwhelming crisis.
But in the face of such tragedy, communities are banding together to help. There's a role for all of us—including our children—to play in this recovery. Here's how your family can make a meaningful difference in the lives of those affected by these devastating wildfires.
For Financial Donations
Financial contributions are often the fastest and most effective way to help. Even small donations can add up and make a big impact. Here is a list of trusted organizations accepting donations for the victims of the LA wildfires:
- American Red Cross: Provides shelter, food, and health services for evacuees. Donate online, call 1-800-RED-CROSS, or text "REDCROSS" to 90999 for a $10 donation.
- California Fire Foundation: This organization delivers direct assistance to fire victims through its Wildfire and Disaster Relief Fund. Your donation helps cover everything from temporary housing costs to replacing basic necessities for families who lost their homes.
- GoFundMe: A centralized hub features verified fundraising campaigns for individuals and nonprofits affected by the fires.
- California Community Wildfire Recovery Fund: This fund focuses on long-term recovery efforts, especially in underserved communities. Your contribution goes toward rebuilding homes and infrastructure, as well as supporting educational and community programs that help families get back on their feet.
For Essential Supplies
Many families forced to evacuate had to leave almost everything behind. By donating essential items, you can directly help them replace what they lost—and your children can help by sorting and packing these donations,.
- YMCA Locations: Local branches, including the Anderson Munger Family YMCA in Los Angeles, are accepting unopened food, clothing, blankets, and emergency supplies. You can simply drop off your donations during business hours.
- Baby2Baby: Focuses on collecting diapers, formula, hygiene products, and other necessities specifically for children and families. If you have kids, invite them to help pick out items like diapers or baby wipes to donate.
- Set Active: This athleisure brand is accepting clothing donations via direct messages on Instagram.
- Lagartijas Climbing Crú: This local BIPOC climbing club is helping connect fire victims to people who want to lend or donate gear, including sleeping bags, sleeping pads, clothes, fuel, and dehydrated meals.
For Food Assistance
Food donations are critical for evacuees. Here's where you can send food donations.
- Los Angeles Regional Food Bank: Accepts food donations and volunteers to distribute meals. They also accept monetary donations.
- World Central Kitchen: Provides meals to first responders and displaced residents. Donations help fund their efforts.
For Volunteer Opportunities
Volunteering is a powerful way to show compassion—and can be a meaningful, hands-on lesson in empathy for kids. If your children are old enough, here are some ways they could help:
- American Red Cross: Offers various volunteer roles but requires training beforehand. From organizing shelter supplies to serving meals, there are plenty of ways for the whole family to get involved.
- Mutual Aid LA Network: This grassroots organization coordinates volunteer efforts at shelters, resource distribution sites, and more. They often need extra hands to sort donations and assist with community outreach.
- Project Camp: Runs pop-up day camps for children displaced by the fires. They're seeking volunteers to help with activities, provide emotional support, and ensure that kids have a safe place to just be kids again.
Support for Firefighters
Firefighters are on the front lines, risking their lives to protect our communities. Showing their support not only lifts their spirits but also helps them do their job more effectively.
- Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation: Accepts financial donations to provide firefighters with much-needed gear, such as hydration packs and emergency shelters.
For Helping Animals
Pets and wildlife are often left vulnerable when wildfires break out. Here's how to help them.
- Pasadena Humane Society: Takes in and cares for pets with burns or other injuries. Donations help cover medical treatments, food, and bedding for animals in need.
- Best Friends Animal Society: Offers free pet food, bedding, and supplies at two pet pantry locations in Los Angeles. You can donate directly to support their efforts or even volunteer if you have extra time.
- Canine Rescue Club: The network is looking for volunteers who can offer temporary foster care for dogs displaced by the fires.
For Housing Assistance
One of the biggest challenges for displaced families is finding a safe place to stay. If you have extra space or want to help fund temporary housing solutions, this is a significant way to make an immediate difference.
- Airbnb Open Homes Program: The company is working with 211 LA to offer free, temporary housing to residents displaced by the fire. The stays will be funded by Airbnb.org and generous Airbnb hosts.
- Local shelters listed by organizations like Mutual Aid LA Network provide safe spaces for those in need. Donations of bedding, toiletries, and other comforts can also help make these temporary spaces more welcoming.
