California wildfires are devastating communities. Learn how to help victims through organizations like Red Cross, World Central Kitchen, and more.
Strong Santa Ana winds are intensifying multiple wildfires burning across Southern California, compelling tens of thousands of residents to evacuate from their homes.
Thousands of firefighters are actively combating four brush fires concurrently.
The Palisades Fire, considered one of the most devastating natural disasters in Los Angeles history, has spread across more than 23,000 acres and is currently at 11% containment, according to the Department of Forestry and Fire Protection.
The Eaton Fire has scorched more than 14,000 acres and is currently at 15% containment, the Kenneth Fire has smoldered 1,000 acres and remains at 90% containment, and the Hurst Fire, impacting more than 700 acres, remains at 76% containment.
Firefighters have achieved full containment of the Woodley Fire, the Sunset Fire, the Lidia Fire, and the Archer Fire.
At least 16 fire-related fatalities are under investigation by the Los Angeles County medical examiner, with numerous others sustaining injuries, according to officials. The death toll is anticipated to increase.
More than 12,000 structures were destroyed in the Palisades and Eaton fires, officials reported.
Los Angeles County Fire Department Chief Anthony Marrone stated during a press conference that despite pre-positioning resources from Northern California, the agencies were "not prepared for this type of widespread disaster."
President Joe Biden has approved a disaster declaration for California at the request of Gov. Gavin Newsom, who declared a state of emergency on Tuesday night.
Here's how you can assist those affected by the wildfires:
Red Cross
The American Red Cross has hundreds of volunteers deploying to Los Angeles to aid with immediate needs of those displaced by the fire.
The agency currently has four shelters operational and intends to establish more as necessary, according to Los Angeles regional executive director Joanne Nowlin.
"This is significant," Nowlin told ABC News. "It's not just the fire, but you've got wind damage, you've got power outages, you've got trees falling, deteriorating air quality. This is impacting thousands and thousands of folks in Los Angeles."
The Red Cross offers emergency assistance to residents and families impacted by disasters, providing meals, medical care, and a safe place to shower and sleep.
Click here to donate.
Salvation Army
The Salvation Army is equipped to provide assistance by delivering water, food, and emergency supplies.
The agency offers both long-term recovery support and immediate relief.
Click here to learn more.
World Central Kitchen
World Central Kitchen's relief team is equipped to support those impacted by the wildfires, as well as first responders, in Southern California.
According to the agency, teams have mobilized to deliver meals to those who are in need of assistance.
Click here to learn more.
Airbnb
Airbnb.org is providing temporary housing for those displaced by the fires in the Los Angeles area.
The company is collaborating with 211 LA, which offers free housing in Los Angeles County, to coordinate the housing effort.
Click here to learn more.
California Fire Foundation Wildfire & Disaster Relief Fund
The California Fire Foundation collaborates with community-based organizations and local fire agencies to offer financial support for residents who are impacted by the fires.
Click here to learn more.
CAL FIRE Benevolent Foundation
The CAL FIRE Benevolent Foundation provides funding for firefighters and their families to assist them in recovering from injuries and hardship.
Click here to learn more.
Wildfire Recovery Fund
The California Community Foundation has worked to assist Los Angeles County since 1915.
The agency's Wildfire Recovery Fund targets hard-to-reach communities in the area with the aim of providing long-term recovery assistance.
Click here to learn more.
Global Empowerment Mission
The Global Empowerment Mission works to provide emergency aid supplies to those in need, such as non-perishable food items, hygiene products, and water. They also provide generators, medical supplies, and temporary shelters.
Click here to learn more.
Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation
The Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation is a nonprofit organization that provides essential equipment for firefighters and funds programs that are crucial to help the agency continue to protect communities and save lives.
Click here to learn more.
Baby2Baby
Baby2Baby is a nonprofit organization that supports children across the country with basic essentials, diapers, and clothing.
The organization has stated it has already delivered 1 million emergency supplies for families impacted by the fires at shelters and will continue assisting in the weeks and months to come.
Click here to learn more.
Feeding America
The Los Angeles Regional Food Bank is collaborating with government agencies, nonprofit, and faith-based organizations to distribute food and other essentials to those displaced by the wildfires with meals.
Click here to learn more.