United for Recovery: Ways to Give Back During the Wildfires

The recent wildfires have left a lasting impact on Los Angeles, displacing families, destroying homes, and testing the resilience of our community. In this time of crisis, the power of community support is essential. There are numerous ways to get involved, whether you’re donating, volunteering, or offering services. Here’s LA Living Magazine’s picks on how you can make a meaningful difference and show the true spirit of LA love.

Organizations & Companies Supporting LA Wildfire Relief

1. The Change Reaction Wildfire Direct Giving Fund

With an initial $10 million donation, The Change Reaction has launched the Wildfire Direct Giving Fund to provide immediate financial relief. The fund focuses on assisting families who have lost their homes and helping essential workers stabilize their lives. Grants up to $5,000 are being given to support families during this time.How to donate: Contribute directly at The Change Reaction Wildfire Direct Giving Fund.

2. Baby2Baby

Baby2Baby is focused on providing necessities such as diapers, clothing, and hygiene products to children affected by the fires. Their efforts ensure that children’s needs are met during the crisis.

How to donate: Visit Baby2Baby to contribute.

3. Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation

The brave men and women of the LA Fire Department are on the front lines, risking their lives to protect the city. Your donations ensure they have the necessary equipment and resources to continue their vital work.

How to Support: Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation.

4. Pasadena Humane

Pasadena Humane is providing shelter, food, and medical care to pets displaced by the wildfires. Your donations will help care for animals who have been affected by the devastation.

How to support: Visit Pasadena Humane to help.

5. California Community Foundation (CCF)

The California Community Foundation is providing financial support for wildfire relief across LA County, focusing on both immediate and long-term recovery efforts.

Donate Here: California Community Foundation.

6. GiveDirectly

GiveDirectly focuses on providing direct cash aid to low-income wildfire survivors. This allows families to use the funds to address their immediate needs, such as food, shelter, and transportation.

How to donate: Support survivors at GiveDirectly.

7. American Red Cross Los Angeles Chapter

The American Red Cross is providing emergency shelter, food, and recovery assistance to individuals affected by the wildfires. They are mobilizing volunteers and resources to ensure that those in need receive immediate support.

How to donate: American Red Cross

8. Team RubiconTeam Rubicon is a veteran-led disaster response organization that deploys volunteers to assist with immediate relief efforts. They are currently providing support in the form of search and rescue, debris removal, and helping with cleanup for those affected by the wildfires.

How to donate: Team Rubicon

9. Alo Yoga

Alo Yoga has donated essential items like clothing, gift cards, and hand creams to first responders and fire victims. Additionally, they are offering financial support to organizations like the Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation and Baby2Baby.

How to contribute: Visit Alo Yoga for more information.

10. GoFundMeGoFundMe provides a safe and secure platform for donating directly to individuals affected by the wildfires. Each campaign is vetted to ensure your contribution reaches the right person in need.

Donate directly: Visit GoFundMe.

How You Can Help: Volunteering and Donating Goods

1. Volunteer Your Time

Organizations like World Central Kitchen are distributing meals to those impacted by the fires. Volunteering at their distribution sites can provide direct support to families and first responders.

2. Donate Goods

Items like clothing, hygiene products, and food are urgently needed. Project Angel Food and Altadena Girls are collecting these goods to distribute to affected families.

3. Support Displaced Pets

The Canine Rescue Club is helping families who have lost pets due to the fires. Donations help provide shelter, food, and medical care for displaced animals.

4. Habitat for Humanity - Rebuild LA

Join Habitat for Humanity and help rebuild Los Angeles. The organization is recruiting volunteers to restore homes in areas affected by the fires.

How to volunteer: Sign up at Habitat for Humanity.

5. LA Works Volunteer Opportunities

If you’re interested in directly aiding recovery efforts, visit LA Works to find volunteer opportunities in rebuilding and recovery.

Donate Wisely: Protect Your Contributions and Support Genuine Relief Efforts

As you contribute to the wildfire relief efforts, it’s important to be mindful of the possibility of scams that can take advantage of the generosity during such a crisis. Always verify the legitimacy of organizations before donating by checking their websites, looking for clear contact information, and ensuring they are reputable. Official organizations, such as those listed in this article, have established records of accountability and transparency, so you can be confident your contribution is going directly to those who need it most. Please take the time to research any organization or individual fundraiser you encounter to ensure that your support is going to a cause that truly helps those affected by the wildfires. With a thoughtful and cautious approach, we can make a real and lasting impact on the recovery efforts while protecting our community from fraud. Together, we can rebuild and show the true spirit of LA love.