Amid the chaos, a quiet yet transformative force is taking root: locals and businesses uniting to support resource and wellness centers, becoming pillars of strength for displaced families, first responders and those seeking stability. Often overlooked in the urgency of disaster, these centers serve as lifelines, providing hot meals, mental health care, emergency housing and financial aid. They also offer a vital opportunity for communities to come together and extend a helping hand during these challenging times.
They serve a deeper purpose: restoring dignity, hope and humanity in a time of despair. They stand as beacons of stability, reminding us that while fire may consume, it cannot extinguish the spirit of those determined to rebuild.
Here’s how they’re making a difference—and how you can help. (I’ll be updating this daily with more resources)
Events that Give Back
California Fire Relief Bake Sale at Carla’s Fresh Market
Jan. 25. Nice Coffee, 30 Los Angeles bakers,and Carla’s Fresh Market are hosting a bake sale at Carla’s Fresh Market to support California fire relief. Bakers will donate 100% of their sales to World Central Kitchen, with Nice Coffee contributing all proceeds from its specialty coffee drinks and small bites. Featured bakers include Emily Laurae, Marissa Feldman, Kassie Mendieta and Kat Higashiyama.
Angeles Fire Department Foundation and will collect donations for multiple organizations. Additional details on collection efforts will follow.
Time: Saturday, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
Address: 248 N. Ave. 50, Los Angeles
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IV Therapy for First Responders
Now Serving. Drip IV Therapy is offering complimentary IV drips and injections to first responders as a gesture of gratitude for their service during the recent wildfires. This initiative aims to support the recovery and well-being of those who have shown extraordinary bravery and dedication in protecting the community. For more information, visit dripivtherapy.com or follow on Instagram at @dripivtherapy.
Address: Check website for specific details
dripivtherapy.com
Sweat Cycle Gives Back
Jan. 17-18. Sweat Cycle in Toluca Lake is hosting charity rides and supporting relief efforts for victims of the L.A. fires. Throughout January, the heated indoor cycling studio is offering free rides to first responders and individuals who lost their homes. To redeem, email info@swtcycle.com. This week, Sweat Cycle will hold two charity rides benefiting the Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation and will collect donations for multiple organizations. Additional details on collection efforts will follow.
Time: Friday at 6:30 p.m. Saturday at 12 p.m.
Address: 11301 Camarillo Street, North Hollywood
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Breakfast Republic Fundraising for LA Regional Food Bank in Support of Wildfire Victims
Now Available. Breakfast Republic is supporting those affected by the Los Angeles County fires by donating 100% of sales from its pineapple upside-down pancakes to the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank. Available at its Echo Park, Culver City and West Hollywood locations, the pancakes feature brown-sugar pineapple and pineapple whipped butter. The initiative runs daily from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. through April 30, 2025.
Time: The initiative runs daily from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. through April 30, 2025
Address: Locations vary
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Santa Monica Place Retailers Support Los Angeles Fire Victims
Through out Jan. Santa Monica Place retailers are partnering to support victims of the recent LA and Pacific Palisades fires, reflecting the community’s resilience and generosity. PAIGE is offering 50% off purchases for fire victims and first responders. SofiaMila will donate 20% of profits to Baby2Baby through Jan. 19 to aid families in need. TUMI is providing a 10% discount for fire victims and first responders through Jan. 31. Uniqlo is accepting $1, $3, or $5 donations at checkout, with 90% going to the LA Regional Food Bank and 10% to Feeding America, valid through Jan. 31. Santa Monica Travel and Tourism’s Santa MoniCARES initiative is also collecting financial donations, goods, services and volunteer offers.
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Resources
National Council of Jewish Women of Los Angeles offers $100 vouchers to Local Thrift Store, The Council Shop
Available. The woman-led nonprofit NCJW|LA supports economic justice for women in Los Angeles through direct cash assistance, skills training and policy advocacy. In response to recent fires, the organization is distributing 1,000 $100 vouchers for use at The Council Shop stores to meet immediate clothing needs. For assistance, contact Selene Lopez or Maria Preciado at info@ncjwla.org. Higher-value vouchers will be available in the coming months for families rebuilding their homes.
- These vouchers are redeemable at all seven of The Council Shop locations below.
Burbank Mar Vista
2515 W. Magnolia Blvd. 12120 Venice Blvd. (at Grandview), Burbank
Canoga Park Granville-West LA
21716 Sharman Way 11801 Santa Monica Blvd., Canoga Park
PalmsFairfax District
3757 Overland Ave. 360 N. Fairfax Ave. (at Oakwood), Los Angeles
Federal Assistance to Fire Victims
Available. Federal programs offer essential financial support to cover costs not covered by insurance. FEMA grants address immediate needs like food and housing, while the Small Business Administration provides low-interest loans for property damage and economic losses. These resources aim to help individuals, families and businesses recover and rebuild after wildfire damage.
FEMA Assistance
FEMA offers grants to help with immediate needs, housing repairs and other expenses like medical bills or vehicle damage. This financial assistance is crucial for those displaced by wildfires, providing resources to regain stability during difficult times.
Small Business Administration (SBA) Loans
SBA loans provide critical financial relief for homeowners, renters and businesses affected by wildfires. These loans cover property loss and economic injury, offering low-interest rates and deferred payment options to help individuals and organizations recover and rebuild.
Apply Here
The Wildfire Preparedness and Recovery
Community support is vital during wildfire recovery. This section highlights ways to contribute, including donations, volunteering and fostering animals for displaced families.
How to Help
Join local disaster response teams, foster pets for affected families, or donate to organizations providing aid. Specific funds and nonprofits are listed to ensure your contributions directly benefit those in need.
Where to Donate
Cash donations and essential items are critical for recovery efforts. Trusted organizations and locations accepting donations are listed to guide your support for wildfire victims and first responders.
The Change Reaction Launches $10M Direct Giving Fund
Available. The Change Reaction has launched a $10 million Emergency Wildfire Direct Giving Fund to support families affected by the Los Angeles wildfires. The fund prioritizes essential workers, including social workers, hospital staff and teachers, ensuring they can assist in recovery efforts. It will also provide grants of up to $5,000 to displaced families, small businesses and unemployed workers, with 100% of donations going directly to recipients. Donations are vetted and distributed through a network of over 2,000 partners and all contributions are matched dollar-for-dollar. The fund aims to grow to $50 million to maximize direct support.
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Verizon Deploys WECC For On-Going Support to Customers Impacted by Southern California Fires
Available. Verizon has deployed a Wireless Emergency Communications Center (WECC) at Ralph’s Supermarket (23841 Malibu Rd, Malibu, CA 90265), available daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. The WECC, powered by generators, offers device charging, Wi-Fi and Verizon cellular connectivity for the community to stay in touch with loved ones. Free Wi-Fi and charging stations are also available at American Red Cross shelters and additional locations, including Westwood Recreation Center, El Camino Real Charter High School and Oxnard College. The Verizon Foundation has donated $1 million to support wildfire relief, including $500,000 to the Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation for essential firefighting tools and $500,000 to the American Red Cross. Verizon is waiving call, text and data fees for customers in the hardest-hit areas and satellite messaging is available for users with compatible devices. Visit Verizon retail stores for free charging and Wi-Fi; check the store locator for availability.
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