When the Palisades inferno erupted early Tuesday morning near Piedra Morada Drive, it was quickly fueled and spread by gusty winds. By Wednesday afternoon, the fire had consumed over 11,802 acres, spreading westward into Malibu and eastward toward Brentwood, leaving a trail of destruction in its wake. This is one of the most destructive natural disasters in United States history. 

Tens of thousands of residents have been forced from their homes, as multiple fires burn simultaneously across the city. Authorities reported several serious injuries, with some still unaccounted for. Along the Pacific Coast Highway, the destruction is particularly devastating. Once-stunning homes, ranging from cozy cottages to multimillion-dollar beachfront estates, have been reduced to ash and rubble. Landmarks and cherished businesses—pillars of the local community—have also been lost.

Communities across Pacific Palisades, Altadena, Pasadena, Sylmar, and Hollywood are reeling from the devastation. With more than 28,000 acres scorched and over 2,000 homes and buildings destroyed, immediate help is desperately needed. 

To help, consider donating to these vital causes, and find ways to volunteer your time and resources to those who need it most. As Los Angeles grapples with this ongoing crisis, the outpouring of support will be crucial to helping its residents rebuild and recover.

The Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation

The Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation is accepting donations to supply firefighters with critical equipment, including emergency fire shelters, hydration packs, and wildland brush tools. Contributions can be made directly to the foundation online.

GoFundMe Verified Requests

GoFundMe's Trust & Safety team is continuously vetting and updating a central hub with more fundraisers as they are verified. You can browse verified cases of people in need and donate here.

California Fire Foundation

The California Fire Foundation supporting residents impacted by the inferno. An online financial donation to the California Fire Foundation Wildfire and Disaster Relief Fund directly supports victims of wildfires and disasters throughout California, including Los Angeles County.

The American Red Cross 

The American Red Cross is working alongside its partners to provide shelter, food, emotional support and health services. You can support the Red Cross by making a donation online, by calling (800) 733-2767 or texting REDCROSS to 90999.'

California Community Foundation Wildfire Recovery Fund

The California Community Foundation distributes grants to affected communities through its Wildfire Recovery Fund. Data from CalFire and CDC’s Social Vulnerability Index ensures that grants target the neediest communities with both immediate support and long-term, sustainable initiatives. You can make a monetary donation online here.