United in Support of Los Angeles

\Like the rest of Southern California, our hearts broke and we felt so helpless as we watched the devastating fires tear through Los Angeles. What our neighbors to the north are experiencing is unfathomable. But in typical San Diego fashion, our community quickly did what we do best — we all rallied, doing whatever we could to help in any way that we could, through donation drives, financial contributions, by fostering animals, volunteering our time, you name it.

Local boutiques Cedros Soles and Sea + Wander sprung into action with clothing drives and financial donation opportunities. ICA San Diego became a donation drop-off site and continues to open their campus to serve as a remote working space for those displaced, with Wi-Fi available and coffee donated by Pannikin Coffee & Tea. Amalfi Cucina Enoteca’s three locations offered family meals to L.A.’s displaced, including two pizzas and a tray of pasta.

Rancho Coastal Humane Society made the quick decision to reschedule their March gala for a new September date to allow their team to continue their daily efforts to help the human and animal victims of the fires, including bringing donated supplies to L.A. County evacuation centers, and relieving area shelters by offering transport of small animals, dogs, and cats. RCHS also recently shared some helpful advice with Ranch & Coast readers on how Southern California pet owners can prepare for an emergency year-round. You can find their tips here.

San Diego Humane Society staff members departed in vehicles for Pasadena Humane Society to help evacuate pets and free up space to allow PHS to support area evacuations. SDHS also donated crates and kennels to assist with Pasadena’s evacuation efforts. Global nonprofit Greater Good is transporting more than 50 adoptable pets from San Diego Humane Society and other shelters to find new homes in the Pacific Northwest and support overwhelmed shelters in the Greater Los Angeles area. 

Helen Woodward Animal Center set up a donation drop outside the adoptions building and hit the road in its Rescue RV. Blue Buffalo, Barons Market, and Midwest Vet immediately provided needed pet food, crates, snacks and bottled water, and the San Diego community came out in full force, providing an endless stream of crucial items from paper towels and pet food to bedding, clothing, and kitty litter. At max capacity, HWAC paused its donation drive while the Rescue RV delivers the much-needed supplies over multiple trips north. Still aiming to make a difference in the ongoing efforts, Helen Woodward Animal Center is donating a check of $50,000 to SCPA Los Angeles and is asking the community to match it.    

The road to recovery is long and will take the efforts of many, but together with collective community support, we’ll make it happen.

Financial contributions are crucial to aid rescue and rehabilitation efforts.

The American Red Cross is addressing multiple critical needs, including an emergency shortage of platelets and specific blood types, while expanding its disaster relief and training programs. 

Baby2Baby provides critical necessities to more than 1 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. 

The California Community Foundation combines grantmaking, advocacy, and community empowerment to address critical regional challenges from climate resilience to civic engagement.

The California Fire Foundation provides comprehensive support for firefighters, their families, and disaster-affected communities through various programs and initiatives. Key programs include the California Firefighters Memorial, disaster relief efforts, and support for families of fallen firefighters.

The Center for Disaster Philanthropy manages strategic disaster recovery funds and provides expert resources for equitable disaster response worldwide. The organization maintains multiple active funds addressing various global crises, from natural disasters to humanitarian emergencies.

Convoy of Hope 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. In response to the L.A. fires, they continue their mission of addressing poverty and hunger through strategic humanitarian programs.

CORE is a humanitarian organization providing immediate relief and recovery to underserved communities worldwide through emergency response, climate change initiatives, and health access programs. The organization focuses on supporting marginalized communities impacted by natural and man-made humanitarian disasters through direct, locally-informed action.

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. 

The Entertainment Industry Foundation has served as the entertainment community’s philanthropic partner for more than 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. 

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 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.

Greater Good Charities works to help people, pets, and the planet by mobilizing in response to need and amplifying the good. To date, they’ve invested over $750 million in cash grants, in-kind supplies, and direct programmatic support.

The LA Arts Community Fire Relief Fund is a Getty-led coalition of major arts organizations and philanthropists providing emergency relief for artists and arts workers in all disciplines who have lost residences, studios, archives, artworks, or livelihoods or have otherwise been impacted by the devastating Los Angeles fires.

The Los Angeles County Animal Care Foundation is dedicated to supporting animals served by the L.A. 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. 

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 has provided over $20 million in funding for critical LAFD needs and supports 106 fire stations across Los Angeles. Multiple donation options include direct station support and merchandise purchases.

The Los Angeles Regional Food Bank 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 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.

Rotary District 5280 is accepting donations to aid those who have been devastated by the Los Angeles wildfires.

spcaLA is an independent, nonprofit animal welfare organization serving Southern California since 1877. Donations run programs and services including cruelty investigations, disaster animal response teams, violence prevention, humane education, and a variety of shelter services.

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. 

The Ventura County Community Foundation has announced 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. 

World Central Kitchen is first to the frontlines, providing meals in response to humanitarian, climate, and community crises.

If you are solicited by a charity, please use resources such as Charity Navigator or GuideStar for reputable charities that will use your donation most effectively.

The FireAid benefit concert will be held at Intuit Dome and Kia Forum featuring some of the biggest names in music: Billie Eilish, Earth, Wind & Fire, Katy Perry, Lady Gaga, Rod Stewart, Stevie Wonder, Sting, Alanis Morissette, Daves Matthews & John Mayer, Dawes, Green Day, No Doubt, Pink, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Stevie Nicks, The Black Crowes, and the list goes on. The concert on January 30 aims to rebuild communities that have been devastated by wildfires. Contributions made to FireAid in connection with the FireAid benefit concert and other direct donations will be distributed under the advisement of the Annenberg Foundation and will be distributed for short-term relief efforts and long-term initiatives to prevent future fire disasters throughout Southern California. The Annenberg Foundation, with decades of philanthropic leadership in the community, including rapid response, will help coordinate a team to direct funds for the greatest impact. 100% of ticket purchases go to benefit FireAid relief efforts, with all venue and ticketing service fees waived.

With three locations in San Diego, Sushi Lounge has created the Relief Roll, with 50% of proceeds from every roll purchased through January 31 donated to World Central Kitchen to help feed first responders and those affected by the fires. 

Clique Hospitality’s Oxford Social Club and Temaki Bar: Handroll, Sushi, Sake are also stepping up to support the firefighters, first responders, and families affected by the wildfires devastating Southern California. Oxford’s “Bartend for a Cause” fundraising event on Saturday, January 25 will feature a night of charity, competition, and cocktails. A portion of the proceeds from the event and the cocktail will be donated to the California Fire Foundation and Direct Relief. In addition, elite guest bartenders including Sebastion Hallak, Dan Fulkerson, James Langley, and Frankie V will compete to sell the most of their signature cocktails, with the winning bartender to receive a donation made in their name. A donation box will also be available during the event for guests who wish to contribute directly to the organizations. 

Wiens Cellars has launched a donation initiative to support those affected by the devastating L.A. fires. Guests can contribute through their Tock Donation Event, with 100% of proceeds going directly to the American Red Cross – Wildfire Relief and the California Fire Foundation. The deadline to donate is February 2, 2025. This initiative is open to both wine club members and non-members, offering a way to give back while receiving a token of appreciation. Members will earn double loyalty points for every dollar donated, while non-members will receive a complimentary tasting voucher for their generosity. The Wiens family believes in the power of community and coming together to make a difference. Every donation helps provide relief, resources, and hope to those in need.

On February 4, Dutch Bros Coffee presents a local giveback day, when $1 from every drink sold will be donated to the American Red Cross to support Los Angeles wildfire relief efforts.

The California Fire Foundation is providing financial aid to victims of the Palisades, Eaton, and other Los Angeles County wildfires through its L.A. Wildfire Relief Efforts program. Support includes assistance to purchase groceries, prescriptions, clothing and other essential needs for those who have lost their homes. Donations can be made directly through the foundation’s website here. Oxford will also hand-deliver critical supplies to Direct Relief, where 100% of donations to the wildfire response fund will go toward assisting individuals impacted by the wildfires across Southern California. Donations can be made to Direct Relief through its website here. 

Temaki Bar will contribute to the cause by donating 100% of the proceeds from its new Chente handroll to GoFundMe’s Wildfire Relief Fund 2025. Featuring Mexican bay scallops, yuzu aquachile, red onion, cilantro, and crispy tortilla strips, the roll is priced at $12 and available through Friday, January 31. GoFundMe’s fundraiser is supporting relief and recovery efforts related to the wildfires burning in L.A. County by sending emergency relief grants of $1,000 each to individuals who have lost homes, loved ones, and property due to the Palisades, Eaton and Hurst fires. Tax-deductible donations can be made to the Wildfire Relief Fund through the website here. 

PR firm Alternative Strategies has created a special campaign, Dining for Disaster Relief. Participating restaurants are donating proceeds from select menu items to benefit the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank, which is providing critical food and resources to wildfire victims.

Here’s how you can support through January 31:

• Cloak & Petal (Little Italy – 1953 India Street): Donating 100% of proceeds from the Tea Ceremony Cocktail and Master Roshi Roll
• The Original 40 Brewing Company (North Park – 3117 University Avenue): 50% of proceeds from January’s Burger of the Month

Here’s how you can support through February 28:

• Coco Maya (Little Italy – 1660 India Street): 50% of proceeds from their Chicken & Waffle dish
• PRK 101 (Carlsbad – 3040 Carlsbad Blvd.): 50% of proceeds from the Chicken N Waffle Sandwich
• The Lobby Tiki Bar & Grill and Cococabana (Oceanside – 408 Pier View Way): 50% of proceeds from their Chicken and Waffles dish
• Louisiana Purchase (North Park – 2305 University Avenue): 50% of proceeds from the Drop Top Chicken Flock dish
• Miss B’s Coconut Club (Mission Beach – 3704 Mission Blvd.): 50% of proceeds from the Chicken & Waffles dish

In response to the devastation and displacement caused by the wildfires in Los Angeles, The San Diego Tourism Authority has compiled a comprehensive list of numerous San Diego-area hotels that are contributing to fire relief by offering special accommodation rates and offers. In addition, San Diego attractions, museums, restaurants, and nonprofits are pitching in with discounts and offers of assistance for those affected. Click for a complete resource guide. 

Pier South Resort in Imperial Beach has launched an “Our Doors are Open” wildfire relief package that features a special discounted reservation rate (this will vary by month and day of week but, for example, weekdays in February are as low as $189 per night). This rate also includes complimentary parking and no resort fee for anyone who has been displaced by the fires. It runs until May 22, 2025.

Feeding San Diego’s truck is filled and off to the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank thanks to the community’s support. Twenty-six pallets (33,000 pounds) are going to provide life-sustaining support and nourishment to people who need it. Feeding San Diego is still gathering donations to help support the massive amount of people impacted by the fires. They will continue to accept donations at their facility in Sorrento Valley, located at 9477 Waples St. Ste. 100 San Diego, CA 92121, Monday through Friday 8am to 4:30pm.
 
Most-needed items are:
• Packaged and shelf stable snacks (protein bars, trail mix, peanut butter, crackers, jerky and fruit snacks)
• Non-perishable ready-to-eat meals (this includes pop top canned meat and individual cereal boxes)

You can also donate funds to Feeding San Diego to help them leverage their purchasing power for these essential items to fill the trucks.

San Diego Food Bank is also in active communication with the team at the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank and is currently working with them to send a truck full of food and requested items to help replenish their supply. There are several ways you can make a difference:

Donate food and supplies: San Diego Food Bank is accepting donations from the following list, provided to by the LA Regional Food Bank: water, energy bars, pop top tuna and chicken, raisins and other dried fruit trail mix, peanut butter crackers, cheese crackers, 100% juice boxes, individual cereal boxes, diapers, and wipes. These items will go directly toward helping families and individuals recover during this time of crisis. To make a donation, San Diego Food Bank is accepting items from this list from Tuesday to Friday, 8am to 2:30pm at both warehouse locations.

Donate your time: Thanks to the outpouring of community support, over 30,000 pounds of food and supplies have already been donated to support our Los Angeles neighbors. San Diego Food Bank has added new volunteer shifts at their Vista warehouse to assist with sorting and organizing incoming donations.