Southern California Wildfires: Our Philanthropic Guide to Disaster Relief

The recent series of deadly, wind-driven wildfires have spread through Los Angeles County in California. This has resulted in multiple fatalities, more than a thousand structures destroyed, and at least 180,000 residents under evacuation orders. The dry conditions and strong winds fueled at least five blazes, causing unprecedented damage in highly populated areas not known for fires. If you are interested in helping the relief efforts, we have included vetted organization recommendations below:  

• American Red Cross has disaster teams and shelter locations on site to help with evacuees and relief efforts. Donating to their wildfire relief fund supports short-term and long-term recovery.  

• Best Friends Pet Adoption Center Los Angeles is on the ground in Los Angeles, offering help and support to local animal welfare organizations in immediate need. 

• Habitat for Humanity of Greater Los Angeles is accepting donations which are being used to help affected families with immediate support and will be heavily involved in long-term recovery.

• Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation is seeking funds to equip LAFD members battling wildfires with equipment and supplies such as emergency fire shelters, hydration backpacks and critical tools. 

• Los Angeles Regional Food Bank is reaching out to its network of more than 600 partner agencies to assess their needs, determine if they are in an evacuation area, and if they continue to operate. 

• The California Community Foundation is managing immediate and long-term recovery efforts through direct support for local organizations through its Wildfire Recovery Fund. 

• The Center for Disaster Philanthropy oversees the Wildfire Recovery Fund, which continually supports disaster relief in the United States, including long-term recovery and resilience. 

• The Salvation Army has been deployed to care for survivors, temporary evacuees, and emergency responders with meals and emotional & spiritual care. They have 13 emergency vehicles ready for deployment as needed including 6 mobile kitchens, 5 transit vans, and 2 shower trailers.   

• World Central Kitchen provides fresh meals in response to humanitarian, climate and community crises, and is actively engaged in the Los Angeles area. Their relief team is on the ground in California to support first responders and families impacted by the wildfires.  

Our team is always available to help make meaningful donations. Whether you are an experienced donor with a clear mission or are at the beginning of your philanthropic journey, we are here to be your partner in impact. We want to help you build a giving strategy grounded in data discernment and empathy, empowering you to make a difference when and where it’s needed most. Our client-first approach, created strategically within your overarching financial plan, is highly personalized and customized to your aspirations.   

If you decide to donate online or to another disaster relief solicitation, here are our top tips in making donations:  

• When donating to an organization directly, give to one you know or use one of the listed organizations above.  

• Use caution when using social media or GoFundMe sites due to scams exploiting a current crisis.  

• When making your donation, we recommend specifying the donation is to assist the people affected by the specific disaster. 

Want to enhance your philanthropic strategy? Let us know by contacting us. Our team is here to help!