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How to Help Victims of California Wildfires
The recent wildfires in California have caused widespread devastation, leaving a trail of destruction across large majorities of the state.
Fueled by dry conditions, high winds, and record-breaking temperatures, these fires have scorched thousands of acres, destroyed entire neighborhoods, and forced tens of thousands of residents to flee their homes. The environmental toll is staggering, with forests and wildlife habitats reduced to ashes.
Meanwhile, the human impact is profound – families have lost their homes, communities have been displaced, and first responders are working tirelessly to combat the flames. As Californians face the daunting task of rebuilding their lives, they need our support more than ever.
Several organizations are on the ground to assist residents as they begin the recovery process. Local community members that are eager to help the recovery efforts assisting the wildfire’s victims may be interested in supporting one or more of the nonprofits delivering aid listed here.
(The Community Foundation of Southern Indiana provides this list as a starting point for those wishing to learn more about how to assist and has verified that each organization listed here is a U.S. 501c3 public charity.)
We will continue to update this list as we learn more in the coming days.
American Red Cross
The national organization has more than 200 volunteers on the ground helping those displaced by the fires. Donations will help volunteers and workers provide shelter, food, health services and other support to evacuees. You can donate online, or call 1-800-RED CROSS (800-733-2767) or text the word CAWILDFIRES to 90999 to make a donation.
California Fire Foundation
The foundation works with local organizations and fire departments to support people impacted by the fires. The foundation is accepting donations on their website.
California Community Foundation’s Wildfire Recovery Fund
The foundation activated its Wildfire Recovery Fund to complement immediate relief, supporting an array of critical recovery services, including housing, case management, mental health, and medical care for displaced residents. It also aids in rebuilding essential infrastructure like emergency communication systems and offers financial disaster assistance, labor law education, and immigration services to low-wage workers and immigrant families.
Charity Navigator
The website lists highly-rated organizations that are providing emergency relief in the Los Angeles Area.
Direct Relief
The California-based nonprofit provides disaster relief and medical assistance and is currently working with local government and other partners to meet the needs of those impacted by the wildfires.
Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation
Donations help the foundation provide additional equipment and resources to the more than 1,100 members of the Los Angeles Fire Department. The foundation is accepting donations on their website.
Los Angeles Regional Food Bank
They’re accepting financial donations on their website to provide food and other products like hygiene items and phone chargers to those impacted.
Pasadena Humane Society
The animal shelter and animal resource center has taken in over 400 animals from the Eaton Fire emergency, many of them with burns and other injuries that require medical attention. Additional funds will help staff purchase much-needed medical supplies and more. The shelter is accepting donations on its website.
The Salvation Army
The organization provides both emergency aid and long-term support to those impacted by the wildfires and is accepting donations on its website.
United Way of Greater Los Angeles
The organization has a designated Wildfire Response Fund, which is accepting online donations to help support longer-term recovery efforts.
World Central Kitchen
The aid organization, headed by chef José Andrés, currently has volunteers on the ground serving meals to first responders and the public in the Greater Los Angeles area. The organization is accepting donations on its website.
Ways to Donate
- Online: Visit the websites of these organizations to make a secure donation.
- Mail: Send a check directly to the organization’s mailing address, specifying that your donation is for California wildfire relief.
- Text: Some organizations, like the American Red Cross, offer the option to donate via text message. For example, text ‘CAWILDFIRES’ to 90999 to make a donation.
Your generosity can provide hope and assistance to those facing the aftermath of these devastating wildfires. Thank you for your compassion and support.