The devastating wildfires sweeping through Los Angeles have left countless families displaced and communities grappling with unimaginable loss. As Angelenos, we feel the weight of this tragedy deeply. For many of us, LA is more than a city—it’s our home, filled with vibrant neighborhoods, rich culture, and a spirit of resilience. If you’re looking for ways to support those affected, here’s a guide to the most effective ways to lend a helping hand.
Organizations Offering ReliefAmerican Red Cross Los Angeles RegionThe American Red Cross provides emergency shelter, food, and emotional support for victims.How to Help: Donate funds or volunteer.
SPCALA’s Disaster Animal Response TeamThis team supports emergency services for animals, including temporary shelters and veterinary care.How to Help: Donate funds to aid their efforts.
Los Angeles Fire Department FoundationThe foundation provides critical support to firefighters, including hydration backpacks, wildland brush tools, and emergency fire shelters.How to Help: Make a monetary donation to equip firefighters on the front lines.
California Fire FoundationThis organization supports surviving families of fallen firefighters and aids impacted communities.How to Help: Donate to their relief fund.
The Salvation ArmyThe Salvation Army provides meals, shelter, and essentials to fire victims.How to Help: Donate money or essential items like clothing and food.
World Central KitchenSpearheaded by chef José Andrés, World Central Kitchen provides meals to first responders and families affected by the fires.How to Help: Donate to support their ongoing relief efforts.
The Los Angeles Regional Food BankThis organization delivers food and supplies to displaced families and first responders.How to Help: Donate money or volunteer to pack and distribute food.
Direct ReliefDirect Relief supplies medical aid, masks, and other resources to affected individuals and first responders.How to Help: Contribute funds or purchase supplies from their wish list.
Community Organized Relief Effort (CORE)CORE supports wildfire victims with essential services and relief resources.How to Help: Donate funds to their wildfire relief efforts.
Pasadena Humane SocietyThis organization rescues and shelters displaced animals, seeking donations of supplies like food, water bowls, blankets, and crates.How to Help: Drop off supplies at their shelter or donate online.
Project Angel FoodProject Angel Food delivers meals to wildfire victims and is seeking volunteers to prepare and distribute food.How to Help: Sign up to volunteer or donate to support their efforts.
Los Angeles County Shelters Taking AnimalsThe Los Angeles County Animal Care Foundation has five shelters for large animals and seven for small animals amid the ongoing Southern California wildfires.
For large animals:
Lancaster Animal Care Center (5210 W Ave I, Lancaster, CA 93536)Industry Hills Expo (16200 Temple Ave, City of Industry, CA 91744)Horses only: Pomona Fairplex (1101 W Mckinley Ave, Pomona, CA 91768)At capacity: Pierce College (6201 Winnetka Ave Woodland Hills, CA 91367)At capacity: Hansen Dam Horse Park (11127 Orcas Ave, Hansen Dam, CA 91342)
For small animals:
Agoura Animal Care Center (29525 Agoura Rd, Agoura Hills, CA 91301)Baldwin Park Animal Care Center (4275 Elton St, Baldwin Park, CA 91706)Carson Animal Care Center (216 W Victoria St, Gardena, CA 90248)Downey Animal Care Center (11258 Garfield Ave, Downey, CA 90242)Lancaster Animal Care Center (5210 W Ave I, Lancaster, CA 93536)Palmdale Animal Care Center (38550 Sierra Hwy, Palmdale, CA 93550)American Red Cross Sheltering Site at El Camino High School (5440 Valley Circle Blvd, Woodland Hills, CA 91367)
LA Animal Services has a total of six shelters, listed below:
East Valley (14409 Vanowen St, Van Nuys CA 91405)Harbor (957 N. Gaffey Street, San Pedro, CA 90731)Chesterfield Square / South LA (1850 W. 60th St. Los Angeles, CA 90047)North Central (3201 Lacy Street, Los Angeles, CA 90031)West Valley (20655 Plummer Street, Chatsworth, CA 91311)West Los Angeles (11361 West Pico Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90064)
Other Ways to HelpGoFundMe: Many families and individuals affected by the fires have created fundraising pages to help rebuild their lives. Search “LA fire victims” on GoFundMe to donate directly.
Support Local Businesses: Help small businesses affected by the fires by purchasing goods or services or donating to community recovery funds.
Spread Awareness: Share verified fundraising efforts and resources on social media to amplify the reach of relief efforts.
Be careful where you donate during and after a disaster. You can verify a charity’s legitimacy on Charity Navigator.
How You Can Make a DifferenceIn addition to supporting these organizations, consider sharing verified fundraising efforts on social media to amplify their reach. Donations of any size, volunteering your time, or simply spreading awareness can make a significant impact.
