California is no stranger to wildfires, and as we kick off the new year, Southern California is grappling with devastating blazes that have left families displaced, communities shaken, and a haze of uncertainty over the region. Even for those of us who aren’t directly affected, many of us in the Central Valley have friends or loved ones in impacted areas, and we often feel called to help during such difficult times. While our desire to assist is strong, knowing the best ways to help can allow us to make a bigger difference. Below, I’ve compiled some tips to ensure your efforts can be maximized for those who need it most during this time. Ways to Help Families Affected by Wildfires 1. Donate Funds Directly Right now, the most effective way to support those impacted by the fires is to provide direct cash assistance. Families in crisis don’t have the space to store physical donations—no matter how well-intentioned—and funds sent through apps like Venmo, Apple Pay, or Cash App reach them quickly and in full. This immediate support allows families to purchase what they need most, in the moment. 2. Be Cautious When Donating Unfortunately, some people exploit tragedies for personal gain. If you’re donating through platforms like GoFundMe, take the time to vet campaigns thoroughly to ensure your contribution is going to a legitimate source. While GoFundMe remains a good way to give, keep in mind that it can take longer for recipients to receive funds compared to direct app transfers, which is why direct donations are preferable when possible. 3. Support Trusted Organizations Organizations like the Red Cross, United Way, nonprofits like the Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation (which provides critical supplies to the huge crews fighting the blazes) and SupplyBank.org (which provides needed supplies to school children and their families immediately following disasters) play a crucial role in disaster relief. These groups reliably provide shelter, meals, and essential supplies — helping families navigate the immediate aftermath of wildfires. Your donations to these organizations can make a big impact. 4. Donate Travel Rewards If you have travel points or rewards that can be transferred, consider donating them to offset the cost of hotel stays for families displaced by evacuations or the loss of their homes. Many families are forced to seek temporary housing (and even with insurance and disaster relief funds, they may have to wait sometime for reimbursement for these costs), and this gesture can go a long way in easing their burden. 5. Help Animals Impacted by Wildfires Wildfires don’t only affect people—they also have a devastating impact on wildlife and pets. Local humane societies and animal rescue organizations are often overwhelmed with animals in need of care during and after fires. Donations to these groups help provide shelter, food, and medical attention to displaced animals. The Pasadena Humane Society is a great place to donate currently, as they have taken in an additional 300+ animals displaced by the fires, and are also caring for animals with burns and injuries. 6. Offer Emotional Support For those who have lost their homes, the trauma is immense. They’ve lost not just their belongings, but also their safe haven and the memories tied to it. If you have loved ones going through this experience, check on them often. Don’t take short answers or a lack of response personally, they’re going through so much, but they’ll still appreciate knowing you care. 7. Do the Legwork Evacuated families may not have the time, energy, or resources to research solutions like road conditions, rental cars, storage options, or AirBnB stays. You can help by handling some of this logistical legwork for them. For the current fires, AirBnB and 211 of Los Angeles have partnered to provide free temporary housing for those displaced. Helping with practical arrangements like these can be a meaningful way to assist. A Call to Action As Californians, we’ve faced wildfires together before, and we know the power of community in times of crisis. Let’s channel our compassion and energy into actions that make a real difference for the families affected and be smart and intentional in how we help, to ensure those who really need our support receive it. Note: If you or a loved one has recently experienced the tragic loss of a home due to fire, this past blog article written by guest author Brooke Rummonds, who went through (and overcame) the same tragic experience, may also be of assistance.