As the wildfires continue to impact communities across California, BBF remains committed to ongoing relief efforts. Our latest support includes a grant to the LA Regional Food Bank, which is ramping up its response to assist evacuees and address widespread food insecurity in Los Angeles County. With this funding, they are bringing in additional food, water, and critical supplies for distribution through partner agencies and directly to those in need. They are also working to assess community needs and take requests from organizations providing frontline assistance.

In addition to the grant, BBF has sent two shipments to support wildfire relief. On January 14, BBF sent 26 pallets (over 250,000) of N95 masks, donated by Allegheny Health Network. These masks provide critical protection against the hazardous air quality caused by wildfire smoke and ash, particularly for vulnerable populations such as children, seniors, and individuals with respiratory conditions. This shipment ensured that residents in affected areas have the tools to safeguard their health as they endure poor air quality conditions.

BBF’s second shipment was sent to the LA Regional Food Bank on January 15, consisting of six pallets of hygiene kits and ten pallets (20,000 bottles) of bottled water. The hygiene kits—assembled by BBF volunteers—contain essential items such as soap and shampoo, helping to maintain health and dignity in disaster settings. The bottled water is critical for areas like Pacific Palisades and Pasadena, where wildfire-related damage to water systems has raised contamination concerns, including potential chemical and debris hazards. Generously donated by Giant Eagle and a network of supporters, these supplies are on their way to provide immediate relief to families in need.

The California wildfires have claimed at least 28 lives, destroyed nearly 16,000 structures, and forced thousands of residents to evacuate. While the smoke and ash from the fires continue to pose severe health risks, progress is being made to contain the blazes. In Los Angeles County, the Palisades, Eaton, and Hughes fires are all more than 90% contained. Efforts are also ongoing to combat other active fires, such as the Border 2 Fire near the Mexico border, which has burned 6,625 acres and is only 10% contained.

We are deeply grateful for the support of our partners and donors who make this response possible. 100% of funds received for BBF’s wildfire response will go directly toward supporting emergency relief efforts and logistics.

Credit card donations can be made on our website at www.brothersbrother.org by clicking on DONATIONS and selecting USA – US Disaster Relief in the dropdown menu. Checks should be made payable to Brother’s Brother Foundation and sent to the address below, with “US Disaster Relief” noted in the memo field:

Brother’s Brother Foundation
P.O. Box 645934
Pittsburgh, PA 15264-5257