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January 13, 2025
News

Devastating wildfires in Los Angeles

Cosmo

Wildfires have been devastating large parts of Los Angeles since January 7, destroying homes, lives, and livelihoods. Our hearts go out to the Jewish community who have lost personal and communal property, alongside all those who are affected beyond the community. 

So far, we know over 10,000 homes have been destroyed, many thousands of people have been evacuated, and some have lost their lives. These figures are expected to rise, with high winds forecasted over the coming days. The true extent of the damage is yet to be fully understood.  

World Jewish Relief has been in close contact with friends, supporters and partners in the area. The personal accounts of the ongoing blaze are truly shocking. 

For over 90 years, one of our core commitments has been to support the needs of vulnerable Jews in crisis. As the Jewish community’s humanitarian agency, we recognise the urgent and obvious needs in LA. This is our community, and we are compelled to take action.   

We have many supporters in the United States, and in 2022, we established World Jewish Relief USA to deepen our connection with the Jewish community there.  

Therefore, through World Jewish Relief USA, we are contributing to the relief efforts of Jewish Federation Los Angeles (JFEDLA), to support those who have been displaced, alongside day camps for children as schools are closed. JFEDLA are leading fundraising and community response efforts in areas affected, and once the wildfires have been contained, rebuilding will be a priority.  

Such catastrophes bring tragedy to people from all walks of life. They are a reminder of the fragility of what we have at any moment in time. World Jewish Relief hopes for a swift end to the wildfires, so that much-needed recovery efforts can take place as soon as possible.