California Fires Response

Los Angeles began 2025 grappling with historic wildfires that ignited on January 8 during tinder-dry and high-wind conditions. Tens of thousands of residents were forced to evacuate to escape flames that destroyed 16,000 structures and charred some 60 square miles at the cost of 29 lives by January 31. Convoy of Hope responded immediately with more than 50 truckloads of relief supplies, filled with food, water, hygiene kits, air purifiers, and more. Some of the resources came from Convoy’s new Regional Distribution Center (RDC) in Sacramento, California. 

This summer, Convoy of Hope hosted impactful events in Modesto and Long Beach, California. The Modesto event was held in partnership with the local Salvation Army, while the Long Beach event took place in collaboration and support with Cottonwood Church from the Los Angeles area. These "Day of Hope" events are a one-day outreach featuring free groceries, hot meals, new children's shoes, family-friendly activities, and access to vital community services. An additional event is planned for September 13 in Downey, CA.

In addition, by the end of the month, we will have completed the Children's Summer Feeding initiative by serving 152,500 children and partnering with over 250 churches in nine states, including California.

Links:

• Convoy of Hope

It has been nearly four months since devastating wildfires raged through the greater Los Angeles area. Though the news cycle has moved on, residents across Southern California are still living the stark reality of life after a major disaster. 

Many community resources like childcare centers, senior care homes, and health clinics are still closed. Rebuilding is slow and costly. More than 100,000 people are displaced, learning a new normal in the wake of losing everything. 

The fires burned for 24 days, destroying tens of thousands of acres and leaving communities in ashes. 

And the effects are more far-reaching than loss of homes. A new survey revealed that the polling equivalent of a million people lost their jobs or income in the wildfires, even if their homes didn’t burn.

That’s why Convoy of Hope is committed to helping for the long haul. Convoy is partnering with local churches and organizations to distribute food and other essential supplies. So far and with your generosity, we have distributed 2,935,959 pounds of supplies and served 153,649 individuals. Our Children’s Summer Feeding initiative will provide 50,000 bags of shelf-stable, nutritious food to kids experiencing food insecurity — an existing issue that worsens in the summer months and is exacerbated by disasters like the wildfires.

To further support wildfire-impacted families, Convoy is hosting several Community Events in 2025 and 2026, offering free shoes, school supplies, haircuts, health screenings, and other services. These events will meet the practical needs of families as they continue to recover.

The fires devastated countless people. Convoy of Hope is committed to helping them rebuild and working with local leaders to strengthen their communities.

Links:

• Follow the response on the News & Stories post on the website.