As relentless wildfires continue to ravage areas in Los Angeles, tens of thousands are being forced to evacuate their homes and find safety while firefighters work to put out the flames.
For those looking for ways to help, NBC News has reviewed and vetted organizations that are aiding in relief efforts on the ground.
Here is a list of verified charities. Click on the names of each for more information how to help.
- California Community Foundation: Its Wildfire Recovery Fund supports both intermediate and long-term relief in underserved areas.
- California Fire Foundation: Provides support to families of firefighters.
- LA Fire Department Foundation: The LAFD Wildfire Emergency Fund provides current Los Angeles Fire Department workers with equipment and supplies.
- Pasadena Humane Society: Helps with pet evacuations in the Los Angeles area.
- Ventura County Community Foundation: Its Wildfire Relief & Recovery Fund provides immediate funding for those in most urgent need.
- American Red Cross of Greater Los Angeles:Provides shelter, food, water, health and mental health services for those who need to evacuate immediately.
- Center for Disaster Philanthropy: Its California Wildfires Recovery Fund helps communities rebuild after the fires.
- Direct Relief: Delivers medical aid to first responders battling the fires as well as displaced residents.
- World Central Kitchen: Distributes food and water to first responders and residents.
For more guidance on which charities can help with specific needs, read below.
How to help people get food
World Central Kitchen‘s Relief Team is providing food and water to first responders and residents around the LA area.
On Instagram, the organization gave an update Jan. 8 as their team delivered food to people impacted by the fires, saying they will continue monitoring throughout the night.
How to help firefighters
The LA Fire Department Foundation‘s Wildfire Emergency Fund supports the local firefighters battling the fires. The fund is being used to finance emergency fire shelters, hydration backpacks and wildland brush tools, per the department’s website.
For more long-term aid, California Fire Foundation provides support to firefighters as well as their families.
The organization also offers aid to victims of fire, scholarships to children of firefighters who have died and resources to underserved communities.
How to help with medical care
Direct Relief has activated its emergency response protocols, per its website, and is in communication with health care providers to provide necessary medical aid.
“The organization is currently deploying medical aid, including emergency medical supplies for first responders and displaced residents, and respiratory protection equipment, including N95 respirators, to mitigate health risks from smoke exposure,” Direct Relief wrote in a statement.
The organization has previously delivered oxygen concentrators, air purifiers and medical equipment to areas impacted by the wildfires.
How to help provide shelter
American Red Cross of Greater Los Angeles is supporting those impacted by opening emergency shelters, as well as providing food, water, health and mental health services.
For those located in California seeking refuge or services, the American Red Cross emergency shelter is at Westwood Recreation Center, located at 350 S. Sepulveda Blvd. in Los Angeles.
“Wildfires can spread rapidly, and it is important to prepare now and have your car ready; do not wait until there is not enough time to grab your essentials,” the organization warned.
How to help animals
Pasadena Humane Society is working to ensure all pets are also evacuated from impacted areas while providing emergency services to those who need it.
“If you are under evacuation orders, please take your pets with you. Prepare now. Pack a ‘go bag’ with your pet’s food (at least five days worth), water, dishes, toys, and any medications. Ensure your pet is wearing a collar with a current ID tag in case they get lost,” the organization said in a statement.
The animal society will have emergency workers and animal control located at the Pasadena evacuation center, which is located at Pasadena Convention Center.
Anyone who finds a lost animal or needs help evacuating a pet should call 626-792-7151 ext. 970.
