January 9, 2025

Help those impacted by the fires in California

Devastating wildfires are sweeping through Southern California, causing widespread destruction and displacing tens of thousands.  

Active fire prevention efforts continue as firefighters battle two of the most destructive wildfires in California history. This fire is one of the top 20 most destructive in California history, based on the number of structures destroyed. More than 56 square miles have burned and several local landmarks have been destroyed.

Fueled by a combination of fierce winds, dry air and dense vegetation, the fires have grown and spread quickly. Compounding the issue is the dense population and the layout of the Los Angeles area. These fires are being described as apocalyptic.

Firefighters are coming from across the United States and from Canada and Mexico to assist with fire suppression efforts. As the fires continue, the number of people are under mandatory evacuation orders fluctuates as does the number under evacuation warnings. The cause of the fires is currently unknown.

It is recommended that residents limit their time outside and wear an N95 mask due to poor air quality. Curfews are in place in impacted areas. Some residents refuse to leave due to fear of looting. As of Jan. 13, 2025, more than 26,000 people have registered for federal assistance under the president’s Major Disaster Declaration. That number is expected to grow.

Related: How to stay safe in wildfire season

This is an active fire situation. The numbers of those impacted continues to climb, the need for recovery assistance will increase. These fires will exacerbate preexisting housing and insurance issues in the region. First responders and residents will be dealing with complications created by the fires for years to come.

Here’s how you can help those affected by the wildfires:

Support recovery efforts: Consider making a one-time or ongoing donation through payroll deduction to a UWCFD nonprofit actively working in the communities affected by the fires:

The American Red Cross (charity code 0337346) provides many relief services in the aftermath of disasters, including sheltering and feeding evacuees in shelters, providing mental health support and counseling for families impacted with tips on self-care and how to cope. When it is safe to do so, Red Cross teams will help with damage assessment and begin distributing relief supplies.

If you are interested in volunteering with the Red Cross disaster relief team, you can learn more here.

American Red Cross Disaster Relief Services (charity code 1468727): We respond to an emergency every 8 minutes. No one else does this: not the government, not other charities. From small house fires to multi-state natural disasters, the American Red Cross goes wherever we’re needed, so people can have clean water, safe shelter and hot meals when they need them most.

Americares (charity code 0315518): Americares has offered assistance to more than 70 partners across California and they are prepared to address urgent health needs and provide health services to survivors.

Direct Relief (charity code 0316325) Delivers medical aid to first responders battling the fires as well as displaced residents.

Humane Society Disaster Relief (charity code 0314983): Our Animal Rescue and Response team is prepared to answer the call for any large-scale emergencies, such as hurricanes, tornadoes, wildfires, earthquakes, utility outages and more.

Pasadena Humane Society : (not in the CFD) is helping with pet evacuations in the Los Angeles area.

The Salvation Army USA (charity code 1478728) The Southern California division is providing food and emotional and spiritual care, and other critical services, to evacuees.

World Central Kitchen (charity code 2006691) has mobilized across the region to provide immediate comforting meals and drinks to first responders and those families and individuals affected by the fires.

World Vison (charity code 0315561) is sending water, food, personal hygiene items, diapers, masks, blankets, air mattresses and toys to assist those impacted by the fires.

Non-UWCFD organizations helping wildfire-affected communities:

• California Community Foundation: Its Wildfire Recovery Fund supports both intermediate and long-term relief in underserved areas.
• California Fire Foundation: Works with local fire agencies and community-based organizations to provide ongoing support to California communities affected by wildfires and other natural disasters.
• Center for Disaster Philanthropy: Its California Wildfires Recovery Fund helps communities rebuild after the fires.
• Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation: Provides equipment for firefighters and funds critical programs to help the Los Angeles Fire Department protect communities and save lives.
• Ventura County Community Foundation: Its Wildfire Relief & Recovery Fund provides immediate funding for those in most urgent need.

Resources for learning and emotional support

• Coping with wildfires and climate change crises (UCSF)
• Tips for Managing Your Distress Related to Wildfires (American Psychological Association)
• Wildfires: Tips for parents on media coverage and Parent guidelines for helping children impacted by wildfires (National Child Traumatic Stress Network)
• Protecting yourself before, during, and after a wildfire (UCSF)
• Wildfire safety (American Red Cross)