On Jan. 7, the Palisades fires began in the Santa Monica Mountains, destroying much of the Pacific Palisades, Topanga, and Malibu. By Jan. 31, twenty four days later, the fires were fully contained
According to Cal Fire, over 23,000 acres of land were destroyed and 11 people lost their lives during the fires. The Palisades fire became the 10th deadliest fire in wildfire history. Homes and entire communities were reduced to ashes. Harmful toxins were released into the air and wildlife habitats were destroyed. Although the fires have been contained, the damage will take time to repair and will require community efforts.
To begin the rebuilding process, several events have been held to raise awareness and funds to support the Palisades and neighboring communities.
Kamala Harris Visits Palisades
Former Vice President Kamala Harris visited the Pacific Palisades, which neighbors her own home in Brentwood, Los Angeles. Harris walked through the ruins of the Palisades and spoke on the smell of the toxicity of the environment. Harris continued to offer her support and spoke with Pacific Palisades residents to hear their stories.
Harris shared her views on climate change in relation to the devastation caused by the fires. She highlighted the need for communities to generate the necessary funding and resources to prepare for future catastrophes, such as the California fires.
FireAid Fundraiser
On Jan. 30 a concert was held at the Kia Forum and Intuit Dome to raise money to help support the effects of the California fires. The fundraiser was called the FireAid Benefit Concert. The concert had a wide variety of performers spread between their two locations like Billie Eilish, Lady Gaga, Peso Pluma, Katy Perry, Olivia Rodrigo, Gracie Abrams, No Doubt, Stevie Nicks and P!NK.
FireAid is led by Joel Gallan as the executive producer, with Rick Krim serving as the talent producer, and production is managed by Shelli Irving and the Azoff family. The team also received support from the Los Angeles Clippers, with all sponsors listed on their website
Alongside the concert, FireAid released merchandise that can be purchased on their website designed by Yoshitomo Nara. Proceeds will go towards FireAids efforts to support wildfire relief. There is also a direct donation link that can be accessed on their website.
So far, they have raised over $100 million to help with wildfire relief.
How you can help
Aside from direct donations, there are a plethora of ways to help support all that was lost in the LA fires. Many companies have created merchandise that donates a majority or all of their proceeds directly to aid in rebuilding life after the LA fires. Some of these companies include Fanatics, Bonfire, Big Bud Press and Teddy Fresh.
How will you get involved? Let us know @VALLEYmag on Instagram.
