This article provides a list of highly-rated nonprofits actively engaged in relief and recovery efforts for victims of the devastating Los Angeles wildfires. It emphasizes the importance of donating to established charities and offers advice on how to ensure donations reach those in need effectively and safely.
Wildfires are devastating the Los Angeles area of Southern California. As of Thursday morning, at least five people were killed, more than 100,000 residents have been ordered to evacuate and nearly 2,000 homes and businesses were destroyed. Charity Navigator has compiled a list of highly rated nonprofits currently engaged in relief and recovery efforts in the Pacific Palisades and the surrounding areas — including support for first responders.
'We've vetted the organizations that are there,' said Michael Thatcher, CEO of Charity Navigator. 'These are all outstanding.' During disasters like these, 'it's best to donate to a highly efficient and experienced charity versus to an individual crowdfunding campaign,' said Laurie Styron, the CEO and executive director of CharityWatch. 'Charities are better equipped to distribute aid equitably to everyone who needs help.' Further, even some well-established groups may not have sufficient experience in aiding wildfire victims. The charity may lack infrastructure in the region or an explicit plan for how it will help. If you aren't sure how best to provide support, 'don't donate impulsively,' Styron said. 'Take your time to confirm that a charity is not only legitimate and efficient but is actively providing aid on the ground.' Unfortunately, as with any high-pressure donation, there will be an increase in fraudulent behavior, said Thatcher, 'and what we encourage people to do is be proactive rather than reactive to a solicitation.' As a general rule, rather than follow a link in a text, email or on social media, go directly to a charity's website or find a relief effort through a site such as Charity Navigator, 'There's a safety element and a legitimacy element,' he said. 'At the end of the day we want to make a difference to the people affected by this fire.' It recommends donors check whether a charity is accredited and take extra precautions on crowdfunding sites, including reviewing how postings are screened as well what transaction fees may apply. In addition, be wary of relief appeals that have vague descriptions or do not explain what programs your support will assist
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