FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 30, 2025
Contact: Press Office, California Community Foundation
Email: connie@cielostrategic.com; press@calfund.org
Los Angeles, CA – The California Community Foundation (CCF) has raised $50 million from more than 36,000 donors across Los Angeles – and the world – to support the most vulnerable and impacted by the region’s devastating wildfires. This overwhelming generosity has allowed CCF to provide over $20 million in critical grants to more than 130 organizations across LA County. This aid, provided within 10 days of the blazes starting, delivers critical aid to help families, workers, and small businesses across the region manage this crisis.
As thousands remain displaced from their homes, jobs, schools, and places of worship, the need for support remains. CCF is working alongside community partners to assess evolving needs and will distribute additional funding to support long-term stability and rebuilding efforts in the weeks ahead. The organization has committed to giving half the funding to immediate efforts in the first month of the wildfire disaster.
“Once the fires began, CCF instantly mobilized its wildfire recovery fund to provide immediate help. But we know recovery doesn’t end when the fires are contained – this is a years-long journey that requires sustained commitment. We will be here for the long haul,” said Miguel Santana, President and CEO of the California Community Foundation. “Our work would not be possible without the incredible support of our donors – more than 36,000 who have given from 5 dollars to $4 million to express their love for Los Angeles and faith in our resilience.”
As an active partner in the region’s recovery, CCF ensures communities lead the rebuilding process. Its grants support a trusted network of organizations providing direct financial aid, legal support, mental health services, housing assistance, and small business stabilization. This funding has expanded the capacity of organizations like New Economics for Women, allowing them to offer temporary housing, childcare, and direct cash relief to families who lost homes and jobs.
“Thanks to the generosity of the California Community Foundation, we can provide additional direct financial assistance to individuals who have lost their homes, jobs, or businesses,” said Leticia Andueza, CEO of New Economics for Women. “In this time of hardship, our team is here to support those affected and offer a helping hand to rebuild and move forward.” Watch our video here to learn how CCF and New Economics for Women are making a difference.
As LA County moves into long-term recovery, CCF’s grantmaking will continue to align with FEMA best practices, prioritizing rehousing wildfire survivors, providing relief for displaced workers, reopening small businesses, and restoring essential community infrastructure. The foundation granted $15 million on January 17th to support the efforts of hundreds of organizations that provide direct aid to thousands across the County. CCF also oversees the charitable giving of more than 1,900 individuals and families who combined granted out $5 million to support impacted communities. As aid continues to come in, CCF’s wildfire relief efforts will gain further visibility through a feature at this year’s GRAMMYs, helping to raise critical funds.
CCF has led disaster relief efforts in California since 2003. The foundation’s Wildfire Recovery Fund is designed to complement immediate relief efforts with sustained, strategic support, ensuring that communities have the resources they need to rebuild and recover. Committed to transparency and accountability, CCF ensures every dollar is maximized to deliver long-term impact. For a complete list of grantees and more information on how you can help, please visit the official Wildfire Recovery Fund website.
About the California Community Foundation (CCF):
Since 1915, CCF has served Los Angeles County as a public charitable organization dedicated to leading systemic change that strengthens communities. Managing $2.3 billion in assets and overseeing 1,900 charitable foundations, funds and legacies, CCF’s mission is to invest in, partner with and amplify the power of community toward a good life. For more information, visit www.calfund.org.