Our Community’s Heartfelt Response
In times of tragedy, clarity and support become lifelines. Our goal is to cut through the noise and provide clear, actionable updates for fire survivors and those stepping up to help. Together, we’re turning compassion into action, one step at a time.
With Love, the South Bay
What we have witnessed in the last few days has been incredibly humbling, encouraging, and inspiring. The massive outpouring of love and support from our South Bay community to aid those in need across the L.A. area has been amazing. We’ve seen this before—rallying to send supplies to Texas, to Maui, and to Malibu—but this time, our colleagues, friends, and neighbors are outdoing themselves.
We’ve never witnessed a tragedy of this scale so close to home. It’s been a stressful, sad, and overwhelming period in Los Angeles history. Our hearts ache for our friends, neighbors, and colleagues across the region. Despite the pain, we’ve also seen incredible heroism and altruism: from the tireless work of firefighters in South Bay and beyond, to the awe-inspiring efforts of aerial defense teams, and the countless volunteers who’ve stepped in to collect and distribute essentials. Within our real estate community, we’ve witnessed professionals working tirelessly to match those in need with shelter and resources. The generous spirit of our South Bay marches on.
We love L.A. and will continue to do everything we can until people are sheltered, clothed, fed, and supported with the resources they need for the long road to recovery ahead.
Thank You
A heartfelt thank you to our clients, friends, and staff who immediately stepped up and brought loads of supplies and monetary donations. Just yesterday, we delivered a carload of brand-new personal hygiene items to the Santa Anita collection point. These included everything from hairbrushes and combs to feminine hygiene products, diapers, dry shampoo, dental care items, and more. As far as we understand, the Santa Anita site will be closing this Wednesday. We want to acknowledge the community of Santa Anita for instantly “popping up” this unofficial donation collection and distribution site. Volunteers came from far and wide and it was an incredibly organized effort. Hundreds of cars, thousands of items and a throng of people were all happily, politely, and efficiently managed minute-to-minute. The Santa Anita site is serving survivors of the Eaton fire that decimated the nearby community of Altadena.
When we arrived, the site was so organized, and the energy was infectious. Volunteers happily welcomed donors, and survivors waved at cars, shouting “thank you” and “God bless” with big smiles. It was uplifting to see love and generosity in action. But it was also eye-opening to witness how much work remains and how many people need urgent help. We are more dedicated than ever to assisting—today, tomorrow, and in the months ahead.
HOMETOWN HEROES
Times like these are when the people around us really step up and shine! So many people reach forth and contribute their expertise to help others; hometown heroes like Doctor Mary Hannon who is offering free consulation services for anyone affected by the fires who needs to speak to a physician or needs prescription refills. Also, anyone recently displaced to the South Bay area that needs contacts for physicians, pediatricians or anyone in the medical community. Call or text Dr. Hannon at 310-300-2804.
Others are offering free therapy sessions and mental health services, you can reach out to [email protected] for more info.
Future Donations
Many donation centers are now turning away clothes, blankets, and shoes as those immediate needs have been met. Some sites will be shutting down this week. However, in El Segundo, a site at the Skechers Warehouse located at 119 Standard St. is working to establish a semi-permanent collection location. They are also seeking volunteers in the coming days.
As the most immediate needs are fulfilled, the focus is shifting toward intermediate necessities.
Here is a list of items that would be most helpful over the next 7-10 days:
Essential Household Supplies
- Paper towels and toilet paper
- Tote bags, backpacks, and gently used luggage
- Cleaning supplies (disinfectant wipes, sprays, gloves, sponges, and mop heads)
- Plastic bins with lids and resealable containers for organizing belongings
- Small kitchen items (disposable plates, cups, utensils, small pots, or pans)
- Extension cords and power strips
- Basic toolkits (screwdrivers, hammers, duct tape, and utility knives)
Personal Care & Comfort
- New hairbrushes and combs
- Dry shampoo
- New air mattresses
- New bed pillows
- New sheet sets
- New and gently used bath towels
- Eyedrops and chapstick
- New nail clippers
- Adult incontinence supplies
- Scalp and hair conditioner
- New undergarments and socks
- Practical shoes like sneakers or work boots
- Lightweight blankets and sleeping bags
Food and Drink
- Bottled water
- Non-perishable food items (individually prepared protein bars, shakes, jerky, sealed tuna and crackers, fruit cups, etc.)
- Instant coffee
- Individual, sealed coffee creamers
- Hydration packets (Liquid IV type)
Pets
- Pet food
- Pet beds and crates
- Leashes and collars
- Flea meds
- Waste bags and grooming brushes
Electronics & Technology
- Cell phone chargers
- Prepaid cell phones
- Portable Wi-Fi hotspots
Emotional Support Items
- Books, puzzles, and games for families
- Journals and pens
- Small toys or stuffed animals for children
Health and Safety
- First aid kits (bandages, antiseptic creams, over-the-counter medications)
- Protective gear (masks, work gloves, safety goggles, earplugs)
- Cooling towels for outdoor workers
Other
- Portable folding chairs
- Pack n’ Plays/playpens
- Car Seats (all ages)
- Baby carriers
- School supplies
- Multivitamins for all ages
- Gift cards for grocery stores, gas stations, or major retailers
- Bus passes or rideshare credits
- Laundry supplies (detergent, fabric softener sheets, quarters for laundromats)
Actress Kristen Bell suggested: When donating, think about what you would give to your best friend in a crisis. If you wouldn’t give the item to them, maybe don’t donate it.
For those outside the area, monetary donations have been a huge help. By shopping at stores like Dollar Tree, we’ve been able to stretch funds to cover many of the items above.
Stay Updated
We will continue to provide updates on shifting donation needs and volunteer opportunities as they arise. By anticipating varied and ongoing needs, we can help ensure survivors feel supported through every stage of recovery. Thank you for your unwavering support—together, we’re making a difference for those who need it most. If you know of anyone needing a rental or lease, short or long term, furnished or unfurnished, please do not hesitate to contact us direct. We are here for our friends and neighbors; close to home and across the L.A. area.