Looking Backward and Forward
February 26th, 2025
Los Angeles has always been a city that thrives on community. Angelenos are diverse, strong, and united through good times and bad. But the beginning of 2025 presented something none of us could have anticipated. The recent fires that ravaged our city were a sobering reminder of the unpredictable forces of nature, and the toll it took on our people is still difficult to fully comprehend. It's a hard truth, but what is even more remarkable is the outpouring of support, the unity, and the way we have rallied together in the face of unimaginable loss.
The fires left an indelible mark on Los Angeles, and the statistics are staggering:
29 confirmed dead according to the City of Los Angeles.
More than a dozen still unaccounted for, as families anxiously await news.
Thousands of people have lost their homes, possessions, and irreplaceable keepsakes—items that hold deep personal value and emotional significance.
More than 7,500 firefighters and emergency personnel were deployed.
Over 1,000 incarcerated firefighters fought on the frontlines.
More than 50,000 acres were burned. For context, that’s more than three times the size of Manhattan (14,600 acres) or nearly double the size of Walt Disney World (27,520 acres).
These numbers may seem abstract, but they represent the lives of real people—neighbors, friends, and families who are forever changed by this disaster. It’s hard to fathom the depth of loss, but what’s truly inspiring is how the city has come together to help rebuild, support, and heal.
The way Los Angeles has responded to this catastrophe has been nothing short of extraordinary. Neighbors have helped neighbors, businesses have opened their doors to those displaced, and volunteers have worked tirelessly to bring relief to those in need.
If you're looking for ways to contribute to the recovery, there are several organizations doing incredible work to support those affected. You can make a difference by donating to:
Support our Incarcerated Firefighters:
Link Here.
Pasadena Humane Society:
Link Here.
LA Regional Food Bank:
Link Here.
LA Region Worker Relief Fund: To get started, connect with Stephanie Holloway, Head of Intergovernmental Relations and Development at the LA County Department of Economic Opportunity at funds@opportunity.lacounty.gov
Link Here.
Altadena Girls:
Link Here.
This truly is the City of Angels. While destruction has scarred our city, it's also been a witness to countless miracles. In the ashes of devastation, families have been able to return to their homes and find cherished heirlooms—pieces of their history that were thought lost forever. There have even been reports of firefighters, risking their lives, going into burning homes to rescue photo albums and keepsakes, knowing that they could never be replaced. Let’s take a moment to give thanks to those for their time and energy they have given during this time.
And as we look to the future, remember: we are stronger together.
On April 5th, BSPOKE/LA will be the venue for Philanthrift x LAParty Fundraising Gala to further support our cities ongoing recovery. There will be performances, drinks, light bites, and great company. Tickets will be available on our website and Eventbrite.
Your contribution—whether big or small—will help make a tangible difference for those still rebuilding from this tragedy.