How to Help and Where to Donate: Supporting Los Angeles Wildfire Relief
In light of the devastating fires in Los Angeles, the PD Avengers team and the Parkinson's community extend their heartfelt condolences to all those affected by the wildfires.
Since January 6, 2025, several fires have ignited across the region due to high winds, dry conditions, and unseasonably warm weather. The Los Angeles area continues to battle multiple wildfires, with the most significant being:
Palisades Fire: Originating in Pacific Palisades, this fire has expanded to over 23,713 acres, leading to mandatory evacuations for more than 153,000 residents. The fire has destroyed over 5,000 structures, including numerous homes of celebrities. (New York Post)
Eaton Fire: Burning in Altadena, north of Pasadena, this fire has consumed approximately 14,117 acres and is the deadliest, with eight reported fatalities.
Hurst Fire: Located north of San Fernando, this fire has affected around 800 acres and is currently 89% contained.
Indirect impacts on the Parkinson’s community residing in the affected areas include:
Air Quality Concerns: Wildfire smoke presents health risks to everyone, but individuals with Parkinson's disease may face heightened vulnerability. Studies suggest that air pollution, including particles from wildfire smoke, can worsen neurological symptoms and may even be associated with an increased risk of developing Parkinson's disease. (PMC)
Healthcare Disruptions: Wildfire emergencies often strain healthcare systems, potentially disrupting access to routine care. For people with Parkinson's, this can mean difficulty obtaining necessary medications and treatments, which may lead to a worsening of symptoms.
Recommendations for the Parkinson's Community
Emergency Preparedness: Individuals with Parkinson's and their caregivers should have an emergency plan in place, including accessible transportation options and a ready supply of medications.
Air Quality Monitoring: Stay informed about air quality levels and minimize exposure during periods of heavy smoke. Using N95 masks and air purifiers can help reduce indoor pollution levels.
Community Support: Engage with local Parkinson's support groups and organizations for assistance and resources during emergencies.
If you'd like to step up and make a direct donation, here are some places we'd recommend:
1. Los Angeles Food Bank is working with government agencies, nonprofit and faith-based partners and others to respond to the fires throughout Los Angeles County.
2. World Central Kitchen is working with food trucks and restaurants to provide meals for emergency workers and anyone affected by the wildfires.
3. GoFundMe started a 2025 Wildfire Relief Fund that will go directly to people impacted who are seeking help through GoFundMe fund-raisers, and to nonprofit organizations on the ground providing relief. They have also created a centralized hub housing — all verified GoFundMe pages related to the wildfires in Southern California. The company said its trust and safety team would update the hub with new verified campaigns as they become available.
At the end of the day, whether they are celebrities, working-class individuals, or people with disabilities, they are all human beings who have lost irreplaceable sentimental items—cherished photos, memories of raising their families, or even loved ones who tragically didn’t survive the fire. In times like these, Los Angeles relies on the strength of its community, and recently, people have stepped up—donating, providing meals, and offering shelter to those in need. A heartfelt mention goes to Canada and Mexico for their invaluable support, sending air tankers and teams of firefighters to help combat the fires.