Multiple wildfires burned over 27,000 acres and killed five people in the Los Angeles area, as of Wednesday evening.
California Gov. Gavin Newsom declared a state of emergency as firefighters struggled to control the fires, most still 0% contained. Winds were expected to ease overnight, but forecasters warned conditions will remain critical through at least Thursday. The governor’s office said nearly 5,000 first responders were on the ground, including crews from Oregon, New Mexico, Washington and Arizona firefighters have also been deployed.
The devastation caused by the Palisades, Eaton, Lidia, Sunset and Hurst Fires is undeniable and has left people from all over the country wondering how to help those who have lost their homes, schools, land and more.
Here’s how you can help and some resources that will benefit communities affected by the L.A. wildfires.
Where can I donate?
Wildfire Relief Fund 2025
This fundraiser is organized by GoFundMe and provides grants to those impacted by U.S. wildfires. GoFundMe verified that donations go directly to individuals who qualify for relief, small businesses, community relief efforts or vetted nonprofits coordinating long-term recovery.
“With your help, we can send emergency grants directly to people impacted by these wildfires, helping them get food, temporary shelter, and other essential supplies.”
Learn more and donate online here.
The American Red Cross
The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters.
“The American Red Cross Los Angeles Region and our partners are working tirelessly to support those affected by the Palisades fire. Red Cross LA has opened an emergency shelter providing shelter, food, water, health and emotional support services.”
Donate online here or by calling 800-733-2767 or texting REDCROSS to 90999.
Pasadena Humane Society
Pasadena Humane Society is a non-profit pet rescue taking in animals of all sizes for emergency boarding.
“If you are able to donate to help provide emergency resources to animals affected by the wildfires, now is the best time. Every donation, no matter how small, will help to provide lifesaving resources.”
Learn more and donate here.
Wildfire Recovery Fund
This is a fundraiser organized by the California Community Foundation that has already raised over $535K, as of Wednesday evening.
“A community’s recovery is often more complex and depends on the scope of the disaster and an affected community’s specific context and needs. For these reasons, the California Community Foundation’s Wildfire Recovery Fund supports both mid-term to long-term recovery efforts for those affected by California wildfires.”
Learn more and donate donate here.
Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation
The LAFD foundation put out a wildfire emergency funding alert to raise money for emergency fire shelters, hydration backpacks and wildland brush tools.
“LAFD firefighters need your help to save lives and protect property during this wildfire. The LAFD Foundation is actively seeking funds to equip our LAFD members battling wildfires with equipment and supplies.”
Learn more and donate donate here.
Near the L.A. area? Here’s how to help
YMCA of Metropolitan Los Angeles
YMCA centers will be converted into temporary evacuation sites, offering shelter, showers and basic amenities. YMCA will also provide childcare services for first responders and displaced families.
The YMCA’s Koreatown Center for Community Well-Being located at 433 S. Vermont Ave. and the Westchester YMCA located at 8015 S. Sepulveda Blvd. are the designated donation sites and are accepting essential items for fire-affected families.
Lagartijas Climbing Crú
The California-based BIPOC climbing crew put together a spreadsheet for people to request and donate supplies.
Los Angeles Regional Food Bank
The food bank is accepting food donations at their two distribution centers from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. located at 1734 E. 41st St. in Los Angeles and 2300 Pellissier Pl. in the City of Industry, California.
For volunteer information, click here.
USA TODAY reporters Minnah Arshad, John Bacon, Trevor Hughes, Jordan Mendoza and Jeanine Santucci contributed to this story.
This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Resources for helping those affected by the wildfires in California