“The Jennifer Hudson Show” is heartbroken about the devastating wildfires taking place across Los Angeles. 

On January 7, fast-moving deadly wildfires began to spread throughout Los Angeles County, destroying thousands of homes and entire neighborhoods. As of this posting, the ongoing fires have left at least five people dead and 180,000 under evacuation orders. 

Here’s how you can help the people of Los Angeles as they face this unexpected tragedy.

The foundation is seeking monetary donations to equip firefighters battling the wildfires with items including emergency fire shelters, hydration backpacks, and wildland brush tools. You can donate online at supportlafd.org.

The American Red Cross is working alongside its partners to provide shelter, food, emotional support, and health services to those displaced by the fires. You can donate at redcross.org, call 1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767), or text REDCROSS to 90999 to make a $10 contribution.

Save the Children has a Children's Emergency Fund you can donate to that helps their teams respond quickly to children caught in the midst of the wildfire crisis. This organization works with local partners to help kids get back to learning as quickly as possible while protecting their mental and psychosocial well-being. Visit savethechildren.org to donate. 

The Best Friends Animal Society brings emergency assistance to animals impacted by the wildfires. Their pet adoption centers in Los Angeles are now open to the community for people who wish to adopt or short- or long-term foster a dog or cat. They also have food, litter, collars, leashes, and more everyday supplies for families with pets in need. Learn more information and donate at bestfriends.org.

World Central Kitchen, founded by celebrity chef and humanitarian José Andrés, provides lifesaving meals to those in need all over the world. They are currently distributing free hot meals to first responders and the public at several locations in Southern California in response to the wildfires.

“World Central Kitchen was founded with a very simple idea,” he told Jennifer while appearing on a November 2024 episode of “The Jennifer Hudson Show” dedicated to honoring the heroes of Hurricane Helene and Hurricane Milton. 

“Cooks like me… supported by an army of empathy and goodness and volunteers everywhere, we could join forces to bring food and water to the middle of the chaos.” Donate at wck.org/donate.