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Ways to Help with the Los Angeles Wildfires

Our hearts are with those affected by the wildfires in LA. ​Photo by Alex Miroshnichenko, via Flickr 2.0
Our hearts are with those affected by the wildfires in LA. ​Photo by Alex Miroshnichenko, via Flickr 2.0
1/9/25 - By Gina Ragland

The recent wildfires tearing through Los Angeles have brought chaos, heartbreak, and destruction to our beloved city. Pacific Palisades and Altadena, both stunningly vibrant LA communities, have been wiped out. Families have lost their homes, children no longer have local schools to attend, and historical buildings have been reduced to rubble. This is not how we envisioned starting a new year. 

Amid the confusion and wreckage, we must look for the heroes. First Responders are working tirelessly to battle blazes and get Angelenos to safety. Firefighters are putting their lives on the line to save others and contain fires in poor air quality conditions.

Read on for the best ways to support these unsung heroes and where to contribute to organizations that are diligently helping displaced families. 

Ways to Help with the Los Angeles Wildfires: Support First Responders and displaced families 
Support First Responders and displaced families. Photo by Alex Miroshnichenko via Flickr 2.0

How to Help with the Los Angeles Wildfires 

Support First Responders

Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) Foundation
Contributions equip LA firefighters with tools and supplies.

California Fire Foundation 
Support firefighters, families of fallen firefighters, and the communities they serve. 

Ways to Help with the Los Angeles Wildfires: Contribute to World Central Kitchen 
World Central Kitchen is providing meals to those affected. Photo courtesy of World Central Kitchen

Support Organizations Providing Relief to Displaced Families & Pets 

Red Cross
The Red Cross is providing shelter and medical services to displaced families.

World Central Kitchen 
The nonprofit organization from Chef Jose Andre has a Southern California team providing meals to First Responders and impacted families.

Pasadena Humane Society 
Contribute monetary donations to the Pasadena Humane Society so they can take care of animals who have been affected by the fires. Items are also available for purchase on their Amazon wishlist. 

Donate Items to Displaced Families 

Bettolino Kitchen for Baby2Baby 
Bettolino Kitchen in the South Bay is collecting baby supplies at their restaurant on behalf of the organization, Baby2Baby. Drop off diapers, formula, and hygiene products, and receive a free dessert card. 

Los Angeles Regional Food Bank 
Food donations are being accepted at the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank's two distribution centers from 8am to 5pm in LA and Industry. 

Talking to Kids About Wildfires 

The current devastation in Los Angeles, and confusion surrounding wildfires may take an emotional toll on young children. Refer to our wildlife primer for kids and families for ways to discuss the current state of affairs with children. 

Ways to Help with the Los Angeles Wildfires: Be prepared for evacuation orders 
Be prepared for an evacuation. Graphic courtesy of the California Bureau of Land Management

How to Prepare for Evacuations and Wildfires 

When preparing a go-bag for evacuation orders, the LAFD recommends that it contains, “the 6 P’s.” These include: 

  • People and pets 
  • Papers and phone numbers that classify as essential documents, like passports and birth certificates
  • Prescriptions 
  • Personal items and photos 
  • Personal computers and electronic devices 
  • Plastics such as IDs and credit cards

Recommended Items to Include in a Go-Bag 

When evacuation orders are issued, you may have little to no time to grab belongings and rush out the door. Have a go-bag packed ahead of time with the following items: 

  • Comfort items for kids like stuffed animals, blankets, and favorite toys 
  • Items to pass the time such as books and board games 
  • Chargers and batteries for electronic devices 
  • Clothing for several days, including outwear, pajamas, undergarments, and durable footwear 
  • Sleeping bag or blanket 
  • Face masks; It’s recommended that N95 and KN95 are best for poor air quality conditions 
  • Water 
  • Non-perishable food 
  • Can opener and utensils 
  • First aid kit 
  • Water bottle 
  • Flashlight (and extra batteries) 
  • A small fire extinguisher
  • A whistle to signal for help 
  • Sanitation needs such as toilet paper, feminine hygiene products, garbage bags, etc. 

Specific Items in a Go-Bag to Include for Babies and Toddlers 

Babies and toddlers will need more than most people if an evacuation order is announced. These supplies can be difficult to come by in an emergency, so prepare ahead of time.   

  • Ready-to-feed formula (does not require water) 
  • Baby carrier 
  • Portable crib, like a pack ‘n play 
  • Breast pumps (manual ones may be best due to potential power outages) 
  • Bottles 
  • Diapers 
  • Wipes 
  • Bibs and burp cloths 
  • Pacifiers and teethers 
  • Baby first aid kit 
  • Cleaning supplies for bottles 
  • Sippy cups, toddler-friendly utensils, and dishware 
  • Disposable nursing pads 
  • Small cooler with ice packs (or frozen water bottles) to keep milk cold 
  • Stroller 
  • Extra blankets 
  • Extra clothes 
  • Vaccination records

Our hearts are with those who have been affected by the Los Angeles wildfires, and with the First Responders who are putting their lives on the line to battle the fires. 

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