My heart goes out to all who have been impacted by the devastating wildfires in Los Angeles. Here is a list of charities vetted by Charity Navigator as well as Charity Watch. The links I have provided go directly to the named websites.
Please be careful. The scammers are out in force! Rather than follow a link in a text, email or on social media, go directly to a charity’s website or find a relief effort through a site such as Charity Navigator, BBB Wise Giving Alliance or CharityWatch.
American Red Cross
The American Red Cross is actively addressing multiple critical needs, including an emergency shortage of platelets and specific blood types, while expanding its disaster relief and training programs. The organization has launched new initiatives including a Super Bowl LIX blood donation promotion and enhanced emergency preparedness resources through their all-hazard mobile app. They continue to provide comprehensive services across disaster relief, blood services, training certification, and military family support.
Baby2Baby
Baby2Baby, led by Co-CEOs Kelly Sawyer Patricof and Norah Weinstein, provides critical necessities to over one million children living in poverty across the United States. The organization distributes diapers, clothing, and basic essentials through various channels including homeless shelters, domestic violence programs, and disaster relief efforts. Recognized as one of Fast Company’s Most Innovative Companies, Baby2Baby has distributed millions of basic essentials nationwide over the past 13 years.
California Community Foundation
The California Community Foundation (CCF) has awarded $2.3 billion in grants since 2015, overseeing 1,900+ funds to strengthen Los Angeles communities. CCF focuses on nine key areas including housing, education, health, and immigration, while employing innovative public-private partnerships to create systemic change. The foundation combines grantmaking, advocacy, and community empowerment to address critical regional challenges from climate resilience to civic engagement.
California Fire Foundation
The California Fire Foundation provides comprehensive support for firefighters, their families, and disaster-affected communities through various programs and initiatives. In 2023, the foundation granted $1.38 million and provided $798,000 in direct aid to fire and disaster survivors, serving 5 million Californians. Key programs include the California Firefighters Memorial, disaster relief efforts, and support for families of fallen firefighters.
Center for Disaster Philanthropy
The Center for Disaster Philanthropy (CDP) manages strategic disaster recovery funds and provides expert resources for equitable disaster response worldwide. In 2023, CDP awarded $22.1M in grants supporting 91 organizations across 21 countries. The organization maintains multiple active funds addressing various global crises, from natural disasters to humanitarian emergencies.
Convoy of Hope
Convoy of Hope, ranked 27th on Forbes’ Top 100 Charities List, has delivered over $2.5 billion in food and supplies since 1994. The organization operates multiple initiatives including children’s feeding, disaster services, and women’s empowerment, engaging nearly 1 million volunteers worldwide. Currently active in California fire response, they continue their mission of addressing poverty and hunger through strategic humanitarian programs.
Core (Community Organized Relief Effort)
CORE is a humanitarian organization providing immediate relief and recovery to underserved communities worldwide through emergency response, climate change initiatives, and health access programs. Their community-powered approach emphasizes local involvement and knowledge in crisis response, operating across multiple countries and regions including Haiti, Ukraine, and the United States. The organization focuses on supporting marginalized communities impacted by natural and man-made humanitarian disasters through direct, locally-informed action.
Direct Relief
Direct Relief operates as a top-rated humanitarian organization providing medical resources and disaster relief across 80+ countries and all U.S. states. The organization maintains a 100% efficiency rating, with zero donations spent on fundraising, while responding to various crises including wildfires, hurricanes, and healthcare inequity. Currently, they are actively responding to multiple wildfires in the Los Angeles area, which have caused fatalities and mass evacuations.
Entertainment Industry Foundation
The Entertainment Industry Foundation (EIF) has served as the entertainment community’s philanthropic partner for over 80 years, leveraging industry voices for global impact. The organization manages various initiatives including fiscally sponsored funds, public service campaigns, and industry-wide programs focused on cancer research, disaster relief, and career development. EIF maintains high charitable standards with a 4-star Charity Navigator rating and BBB accreditation.
Global Empowerment Mission Inc.
Global Empowerment Mission (GEM) operates as a highly efficient 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization delivering rapid disaster relief globally. The organization maintains one of the highest dollar-to-impact ratios in the nonprofit sector, responding to multiple concurrent disasters including wildfires, hurricanes, and floods across different continents. GEM’s approach focuses on immediate response and efficient aid distribution through strategic partnerships and innovative solutions.
GlobalGiving
GlobalGiving serves as a worldwide platform connecting nonprofits, donors, and companies across 175+ countries, having facilitated $991M in donations through nearly 40,000 projects. The organization provides nonprofits with essential funding, tools, and training while offering donors and companies verified channels for global charitable giving and disaster relief efforts.
Los Angeles County Animal Care Foundation
The Los Angeles County Animal Care Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting animals served by the LA County Department of Animal Care and Control. The Foundation bridges funding gaps in local government budgets through charitable fundraising to help shelter animals thrive and find permanent homes. They offer various programs including pet adoption, monthly donation options, and medical care support for animals in need.
Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation
The Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation is actively fundraising to support 3,500 LAFD personnel with essential equipment and supplies for wildfire response. The foundation, rated highly by charity evaluators, has provided over $20M in funding for critical LAFD needs and supports 106 fire stations across Los Angeles. Multiple donation options are available, including direct station support and merchandise purchases.
Los Angeles Regional Food Bank
The Los Angeles Regional Food Bank has been combating food insecurity in Los Angeles County, where one in four residents face hunger challenges. The organization operates through a network of local food pantries and agency partners, powered by volunteers and donations, with $25 providing up to 100 meals. The Food Bank responds to various emergencies, including recent wildfires, while maintaining regular food assistance programs.
Pasadena Humane
Pasadena Humane operates as a comprehensive animal welfare center offering adoption services, lost and found assistance, and pet support services seven days a week. The facility provides both appointment-based and walk-in adoption opportunities, along with fostering programs and community events. Recent updates focus on emergency response to the Eaton Canyon fire and severe weather conditions.
United Way of Ventura County
United Way of Ventura County focuses on three core pillars: education, income stability, and health access. The organization provides essential community services including youth education support, financial empowerment programs, and preventative healthcare initiatives. Their comprehensive approach includes practical assistance like free tax preparation for qualified households while working toward long-term community development.
Ventura County Community Foundation
The Ventura County Community Foundation (VCCF) has announced multiple community programs for 2024, including wildfire relief efforts and scholarship opportunities. The foundation is expanding its community engagement through initiatives like the Trusted Messengers Network and Coffee & Connections networking events for nonprofit professionals. VCCF continues to keep stakeholders informed through their Legacy Magazine and Power of Purpose newsletter.
Author’s note: This is not a sponsored post. I am the author of this article and it expresses my own opinions. I am not, nor is my company, receiving compensation for it. This work was created with the assistance of various generative AI models.