Goodness Report

Compassion in Action: How You Can Help LA Recover, Now and in the Future

January 22, 2025

Our hearts are with all those affected by the recent Los Angeles wildfires. In times like these, communities come together to support one another. Idea Hall stands in solidarity with our neighbors, and our team is committed to supporting relief efforts.  

If you’re looking for ways to support, consider donating to organizations making a big impact on the ground. Many organizations are asking specifically for monetary donations right now to get direct aid to people quickly. This also reduces the need for storage, sorting of goods because space and manpower are severely limited. Below, we’ve compiled thoughtful tips and resources to help you support recovery efforts effectively and compassionately. 

 

Financial Contributions Have the Most Benefit 

When disaster strikes, financial contributions are the fastest and most effective way to provide aid. Monetary donations allow relief organizations to allocate resources where they are needed most, whether that’s food, water, medical supplies, or support for displaced families. By donating money, you help ensure that assistance reaches those in need without creating logistical challenges like sorting and storing physical items. 

Financial donations do the most.

Supporting Those Who Have Lost Homes and Property 

It can be difficult to know what to say to someone who has lost their home or property. While words may never fully encompass your empathy, it’s important to be mindful and sensitive. Avoid comments that minimize their loss or focus on material replacements like, “At least you’re safe,” or “Things can be replaced.” Instead, express heartfelt compassion with statements like, “I’m so sorry for your loss,” or “I’m here to support you however I can.” Simply being present and listening can make a meaningful impact. 

211 LA, Hilton, and American Express Unite to Aid LA Fire Survivors

In response to the needs of the Los Angeles community, 211 LA, Hilton, and American Express have joined forces to provide critical relief to displaced residents. With 20,000 hotel room nights offered free of charge at Hilton properties, this initiative will provide immediate shelter and a safe space for recovery to those who need it most.  

To be considered for the program, residents need to first apply to 211 LA for housing assistance using this application: bit.ly/211-Emergency-Services-Request 

Residents who have already applied through 211 LA do not need to fill out another application. 

Be thoughtful in word and deed. Don't say "at least you are safe." Say something like "I'm here to support you instead"

We All Need to Think in the Long-Term 

Recovery from the LA fire will take a long time. While immediate aid is critical, the need for support will continue long after the flames are extinguished. Consider signing up for recurring donations to organizations actively supporting disaster recovery and rebuilding efforts. Alternatively, set a calendar reminder for next month, 3 months out and also 6 months. Revisit your commitment to helping the LA community when people will still be in need. Every effort, no matter how small, helps build a stronger foundation for recovery. 

Set an alarm. Check in on what LA needs. Recovery is a long process. Check back on community needs.

Trusted Organizations to Support 

The list of organizations providing crucial support to those affected by the fires is long, here are a few groups working directly on the ground now: 

Team Rubicon: A veteran-led disaster relief organization providing logistical support, road debris removal, resources for frontline firefighters, and more. Donate here. #client 

Los Angeles Regional Food Bank: Working with government agencies, nonprofit and faith-based partners and others to respond to the fires throughout Los Angeles County. Donate here. 

LA Firefighter Foundation: Supporting the brave firefighters battling wildfires and helping communities recover. Donate here. 

California Community Foundation: Providing relief and rebuilding support for affected communities. Donate here. 

The Salvation Army: Delivering immediate relief and long-term recovery efforts. Donate here. #client 

Baby2Baby: This nonprofit dedicated to serving children in need is providing essential items such as diapers, food, formula, and hygiene products for children and families. Donate directly here 

2025 LA Fire GoFundMe Spreadsheet: The community has come together to create a grassroots Google Sheet database of GoFundMe accounts for almost 300 families severely impacted. View it here. 

Community Support from Local OC Restaurants: Katrina Foley, who represents the Fifth District as Vice Chair on the Orange County Board of Supervisors, shared a list of +150 OC restaurants who are banding together to raise money for the LA Food Bank.  

 

Los Angeles County Animal Care Foundation: Donations to this nonprofit will help support animals and pet owners displaced by the Southern California wildfires and to disaster response in areas with the most need. Donate directly here.  

The Los Angeles Equestrian Center established a support resource page to contribute to evacuated animals, the equestrian center, and people in need.  

Local animal shelters are stepping up to provide refuge for displaced animals, but they need support to care for their new arrivals. Items like cat and dog food, bottles, litter, and litter boxes are in high demand. Reach out to your local animal shelter to learn what supplies they need most. By donating directly, you can make a significant difference for these animals and your community. 

A Shared Commitment to Recovery 

At Idea Hall, we work directly with organizations finding solutions every day for homelessness, affordable housing, and disaster relief. During times of crisis, like the LA fire, their resources and expertise become even more vital. Every donation, no matter the size, can help provide relief and hope to those in need. Together, let’s support our neighbors with acts of goodness, big and small. Recovery takes time, but through compassion and collective action, we can help rebuild and heal our beloved LA community.