The Palisades Wildfire has left many in our community facing loss, displacement, and uncertainty. In times like these, knowing where to find help is critical. Fortunately, several organizations have stepped up to offer financial aid, emergency relief, food assistance, and essential supplies to those impacted. Below is a list of key resources to help individuals and families recover.
Financial Assistance: LA County Household Relief Grant
If you lost your home or were displaced by the Palisades Fire, you may qualify for financial aid through the LA County Household Relief Grant. This program provides grants of $6,000, $12,000, or $18,000, depending on household size and circumstances. Priority is given to those whose primary residence was completely destroyed or severely damaged.
Applications open on February 26, 2025, and close on March 12, 2025. Funds are intended to cover immediate needs while families wait for insurance or other relief.
🔗 More info & application: LA County Household Relief Grant
Local Support and Relief Efforts: Topanga REACH
For residents in Topanga and surrounding areas, Topanga REACH (Relief, Emergency-Aid, & Community Help) is an excellent resource providing on-the-ground support. They assist with food, supplies, and emergency relief efforts for those affected by the wildfire.
Topanga REACH operates a relief center every Sunday from 12 PM to 4 PM at the Topanga General Store parking lot. They are looking for volunteers to help distribute supplies and organize donations.
🔗 More info & volunteer sign-up: Topanga REACH Website
📸 Follow for updates: Instagram @topangareach
Free Meals for Fire Survivors and First Responders: World Central Kitchen
World Central Kitchen (WCK) has been providing fresh, hot meals to those affected by disasters worldwide. In response to the Palisades Fire, WCK has set up food distribution points throughout the region.
They have partnered with local food trucks like Gordo Hibachi in Santa Monica, Kogi BBQ in La Cañada, and Dulanville Soul Food in Altadena to serve meals to first responders and displaced families. Volunteers also help deliver food to those in need.
🔗 Find meal locations & support WCK: World Central Kitchen
Clothing and Household Essentials: Community Closet in Malibu
For those who lost everything in the fire, the Community Closet in Malibu is offering free clothing, bedding, and household essentials to wildfire survivors. This boutique-style donation center allows families to pick out what they need in a comfortable, dignified setting.
The Community Closet is located at 24903 Pacific Coast Highway and is open Tuesday through Sunday from 11 AM to 5 PM, or by appointment. The center will remain open until April 1.
Donations of new and gently used clothing and essential items are welcome, and volunteers are needed to help organize and distribute supplies.
🔗 Read more & support the Community Closet: Malibu Times Article
📸 Follow for updates & donation needs: Instagram @the_community_.closet
How You Can Help
If you are in a position to help, consider donating money, supplies, or your time. Each of these organizations is working hard to provide relief, but they rely on community support to continue their efforts. Whether it is through volunteering at Topanga REACH, donating to the Community Closet, or contributing to World Central Kitchen, every effort makes a difference.
To learn more about any of these programs, visit their websites for up-to-date information on how to apply for aid, volunteer, or donate. Together, we can help our neighbors rebuild and recover.
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