Firefighters work during a brush fire on January 7, 2025 in Pacific Palisades, California.
David Swanson | AFP | Getty Images
massive wildfires is destroying the Los Angeles area of Southern California. As of Thursday morning, at least five people had died, more than 100,000 residents had been ordered to evacuate, and nearly 2,000 homes and businesses had been destroyed.
Many people across the country and around the world hope helpwhether it’s donations or emergency supplies. However, there are already fundraising activities Scam Trying to take advantage of the crisis.
To ensure your money is in the right hands, third-party evaluator Charity Navigator has compiled a list Highly rated nonprofit organization currently engaged in rescue and recovery efforts in Pacific Palisades and surrounding areas, including supporting first responders.
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“We’ve done a review of the organizations out there,” Charity Navigator chief executive Michael Thatcher said. “Those are outstanding.”
Here are some of the groups that received high marks from the organization for providing immediate support to wildfire victims and communities impacted by wildfires.
How to avoid wildfire-related scams
Unfortunately, as with any high-pressure donation, fraud will increase, Thatcher said, “We encourage people to be proactive rather than reactive to solicitations.”
As a general rule, don’t click on links in text, emails or social media. Instead, go directly to the charity’s website or find relief efforts through sites like Charity Navigator. BBB Smart Giving Alliance or charity watchThatcher said.
“There’s a safety factor and a legality factor,” he said. “Ultimately, we hope to make a difference for the people affected by this fire.”
Also available from the BBB Smart Giving Alliance Donation Tips Contribute to California wildfire relief efforts.
It advises donors to check whether a charity is accredited and to take extra precautions on crowdfunding sites, including reviewing how posts are screened and what transaction fees may be charged.
Additionally, be wary of relief appeals that describe vaguely or do not explain which programs your support will assist.
