Helping California’s First Responders Recover from the 2025 Los Angeles Wildfires
In January 2025, devastating wildfires tore through Los Angeles, destroying thousands of homes and displacing entire communities. Among those affected were members of the Altadena Community Emergency Response Team (CERT)—volunteers who had been on the front lines, helping others, even as their own homes burned.
At Community Emergency Response Volunteers (CERV) of the Monterey Peninsula, we believe in neighbors helping neighbors—whether they're down the street or across the state. That's why we’ve launched a relief campaign to support Altadena CERT members and their families who have lost their homes.
The Impact of the 2025 Los Angeles Wildfires
The Palisades and Eaton Fires, two of the most destructive blazes in Los Angeles history, burned over 37,000 acres, destroyed nearly 16,000 homes and buildings, and tragically claimed the lives of at least 28 people. The fires spread rapidly due to strong winds, dry conditions, and an exceptionally intense fire season across California.
CERT Volunteers on the Front Lines
CERT members are trained volunteers who provide critical disaster response support, including:
- Assisting with evacuations
- Providing first aid
- Organizing emergency shelters
- Communicating emergency information to residents
During the Eaton Fire, many Altadena CERT members were actively assisting their neighbors—rescuing families, securing supplies, and organizing evacuations. Despite their heroic efforts, several of these volunteers lost their homes and personal belongings in the disaster.
CERV’s Relief Fund for Altadena CERT
CERV has established a $10,000 fundraising campaign to directly support Altadena CERT members in rebuilding their lives. These funds will be used to:
- Provide emergency financial assistance to displaced CERT volunteers
- Help fund temporary housing and essential supplies
- Support mental health resources for first responders
In partnership with the Altadena Rotary and local organizations, donations will be distributed directly to affected CERT members at a Giving Day event on February 8, 2025.
How You Can Help
Make a Donation
Every contribution—big or small—makes a difference. Your donation will go directly toward helping Altadena CERT members and their families recover.
Share the Campaign
Spread the word! Share this blog post on social media, email it to friends, and encourage your community to support those who put their lives on the line for others. To make an immediate impact, share the direct donation link: https://donorbox.org/support-altadena-cert-emergency-relief-for-l-a-wildfire-survivors. Every contribution helps provide essential relief to wildfire survivors.
Support Local CERT Programs
If you live in California, consider getting involved with your local CERT team. Training as a volunteer responder can make a life-saving impact in future disasters.
Why This Matters
California’s wildfires are becoming more frequent and severe, and our frontline volunteers—especially CERT members—play an essential role in disaster response. Supporting them in their time of need is not just an act of kindness; it’s an investment in community resilience.
By standing with Altadena CERT members, we ensure that when the next disaster strikes, they’ll be ready to help again.
Thank you for your generosity and for supporting those who serve.
