Resources On How To Help and Get Help For Those
Affected By The Los Angeles Fires
Photo taken January 4th, 3 days before the house of a dear friend was burned to the ground. The background shows the Palisades coast down to Malibu.
“When you can’t find the sunshine, be the sunshine.”
The recent fires in Los Angeles have left no one untouched, directly or indirectly. My heart aches and I am completely devastated for those who have lost their homes, businesses, cherished memories, and entire communities. Many of my friends in the Pacific Palisades have seen their homes reduced to ashes, and my beloved barn, Jigsaw Farms at Will Rogers State Historic Park, was also tragically destroyed. Thankfully, all my friends were safe, and the horses and staff were evacuated just in time.
Since last week, I've been overwhelmed by feelings of grief, disbelief, and heartbreak. While my home was spared, living in Bel Air for over a decade has meant facing three evacuation orders—each one more surreal and unsettling than the last. It's hard to comprehend that this is our new reality and it feels like we're trapped in a bad dream.
But even in times of such profound loss, I'm reminded of the strength that comes from community—of the empathy, kindness, and resilience that bind us together. The fires have left deep scars, but they've also revealed opportunities to support, rebuild, and rise stronger than before.
Over the past week, I felt quite paralyzed from all the stress but have managed to gather and deliver essential items to my friends who lost it all. I also decided that one of the best ways for me to help is to collect important information and resources and share them with my community. This information is good for anyone who needs immediate help and for those who want to contribute from afar.
Keep scrolling to see the complete list of resources on how to help or get help for those affected by the fires. I've also included product picks for fire protection and so much more. Together, we can make a meaningful difference and bring hope to communities that have lost so much. Please forward this so we can help as many people as possible.
In the face of this unimaginable loss, let's be the light that guides each other through the darkness.
Xx Melissa
Photo taken at the barn where I used to horseback ride, Jigsaw Farms. :(
The recent wildfires in Los Angeles have caused significant devastation, and numerous organizations are actively providing relief to those affected.
Organizations For Monetary Donations
BABY2BABY
This incredible charity provides children living in poverty with diapers, clothing, and basic necessities, especially during emergencies. They set up a special initiative to support children and families affected by the fires. You can make a donation to their LA Fire Disaster Relief Fund HERE.
BSTRONG CA WILDFIRE RELIEF
Lead by Bethenny Frankel, Bstrong is providing Crisis KITS and Cash Cards at distribution centers in Pasadena. Click HERE for more information.
CALIFORNIA COMMUNITY FOUNDATION (CCF)
For the LA County wildfires, the CCF has activated their fund to complement immediate relief, addressing the long-term recovery needs of neighborhoods long after media attention has shifted away. Click HERE to donate.
CALIFORNIA FIRE FOUNDATION
The California Fire Foundation, a non-profit 501 (c)(3) organization, provides emotional and financial assistance to families of fallen firefighters, firefighters and the communities they protect. Click HERE to donate.
DISASTER RELIEF: CALIFORNIA WILDFIRES
The Greater Good charities help deliver essential aid to the right places at the right time for vulnerable people, pets, and communities affected by this disaster. Click HERE to donate.
FEMME CHEVAL
This platform shares equine updates in the wildfire including resources to for and to help. Click HERE to view how you can support.
HABITAT FOR HUMANITY
Every donation supports building affordable housing for everyone, everywhere. Click HERE to donate.
LOS ANGELES FIRE DEPARTMENT FOUNDATION
Supports firefighters by providing essential equipment and resources to effectively combat wildfires. Click HERE to donate.
ONE VOICE FIRE RELIEF
One Voice will use 100% of the donations to the fire relief fund to provide temporary financial support for unemployed workers to pay rent, food and other necessities as they regain employment. Click HERE to donate.
PROJECT HOPE
Project HOPE is actively distributing hygiene and emergency kits to displaced families and children. Click HERE to donate.
GoFundMe: Donate Directly To Those In Need
Several of my friends homes perished in the fires. You can always send me a DM on Instagram and I can connect you to them for specific donations. Below are two families I am close with that set up a GoFundMe for direct donations.
Hosts verified fundraisers dedicated to supporting individuals and families affected by the wildfires.
Jigsaw Farms started a GoFundMe--Cha Cha's Urgent Appeal for Jigsaw Farms. This was the barn where I went horseback riding for the past 2 years. It has been completely destroyed by the Palisades Fire.
Resources For Those Directly Affected By The Fires
AIRBNB
Partnered with 211LA to provide FREE Emergency Housing to people who've been displaced and first responders. Intake form HERE.
ANGELES REGIONAL FOOD BANK
1734 E. 41st Street, Los Angeles, CA 90058
323.234.3030
Distributes food and essential items to residents in need across Los Angeles County.
CALIFORNIA FIRE FOUNDATION
Offers financial assistance to victims of wildfires and supports firefighting communities.
323.234.3030
Distributes food and essential items to residents in need across Los Angeles County.
CALIFORNIA WILDFIRE DAMAGE COMPENSATION
Click HERE to determine - for FREE - if you are eligible for help or compensation after facing mandatory evacuation, property damage, health issues or business interruptions resulting from the wildfire tragedy.
LA FIRE HELP PEOPLE'S BOUTIQUE
112 W. 9th St, Suite 400, Downtown Los Angeles
12pm - 8pm / 7 days a week
This is a FREE store those who have lost everything and or affected by the fires (10 items per person). Click HERE for more information.
L’AGENCE FASHION
Visit Beverly Hills or Fashion Island stores to receive essential L’AGENCE apparel. Proof of address or photo ID in the affected area is required. If unable to come into the store, submit a request online.
MARKET VENICE
72 Market St, Venice, CA 90291
(424) 744-8354
Will be offering dinner next door every night to those displaced and fire victims.
THE EXPERT REBUILD HOTLINE
This L.A.-based company is offering free one-hour video calls with interior designers to those who have lost their homes. Rebuild Hotline Request Form
THE WELLBEING LINE
(833) 307-0509
If you are experiencing grief, stress, anxiety, moral distress or challenges due to the California Fires the LA County Wellbeing Line is here to support you.
Click here for more resources from the Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health
TRAVEL + LEISURE
20,000 free hotel rooms for LA wildfire evacuees from Hilton and American Express. How to apply
WATCH DUTY APP
Click HERE download this FREE app to stay updated on wildfire news
VIVIAN TU, YOUR RICH BFF
@Your.RichBFF provides the best info, tips and tricks for all things finance to help you get rich and save money. Click HERE to view her post on what to do financially if you are impacted by the LA fires.
Brands That Give Back And Product Donations
CAMI AND JAX
My favorite LA-based swimsuit company is collecting new women's hygiene and care products as well as creating care packages to offer comfort and support to those facing loss. Send them a direct message HERE on their Instagram for donation drop-off. To request a care package, please email camiandjaxswimwear@gmail.com.
CREDO BEAUTY
Providing Free Credo Care Packages for all those who have been affected by the wildfire. Click HERE to sign up and pick up at your nearest location.
GOOD CARMA STUDIO
This incredible branding company is collecting gift cards from brands and anyone who will send them their way. Or, if you are an individual and would like to donate a Target or Amazon gift card, send them a DM on Instagram HERE and mention my name!
THIRTEEN LUNE
Nyakio Grieco, Founder of @thirteenLune will distribute all donations to evacuation centers. Please visit or send new beauty essentials to their flagship store at 120 N Larchmont Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90004
Drop Off Hours: Tuesday - Saturday From 10am - 6am, Sunday From 11am - 4pm
Discounted Shopping
The participating stores below are offering in-store discounts for those affected by the fires at the Westfield Century City Mall.
Bloomingdales 25% off
Stance 30% off
Lululemon 25% off
Levi's 30% off
Alo 15% off
Aritzia 20% off
Vuori 40% off
Banana Republic 40% off
Travis Matthews 40% off
