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California Wildfires: Indian-origin Angelenos who have lost their homes
The wildfires have destroyed thousands of structures and at least 27 people have died. Here’s where you can donate to help the victims.
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Palisades fire from 405 highway. / Lindy Payne
Southern California residents entered the week with the Palisades fire and the Eaton fire still raging. The Palisades fire remained 59 percent contained as of Jan.20 morning. It has burned more than 23,713 acres. The Eaton fire was 87 percent contained as of Jan.20 morning. It has burned 14,021 acres. Additionally, three brush fires erupted in San Diego County on Jan.21, leading to evacuation orders as Southern California faced heightened fire danger. The Lilac fire, ignited near Old Highway 395 and Lilac Road, rapidly grew to 80 acres, prompting mandatory evacuations. By Jan.21 morning, firefighters had achieved 10 percent containment.
Thankfully, much-needed rain is forecast to arrive in the region late on Jan.24 and continue into early Jan.25, offering some relief after a prolonged dry spell that has contributed to devastating wildfires.
At this time, while the Palisades and Altadena communities continue to grapple with the devastation, New India Abroad is highlighting the experiences of the Indian American community who lost their homes to the wildfires.
“I lost my home in the fires. It’s a total loss. We started moving in last week. We spent one night there. Just one. Growing up, my parents didn’t own a home. Like so many, I worked, saved, and sacrificed with the dream of having what my parents didn’t have. I was so proud. And then—just like that—after years of working and saving, it was gone,” mentioned Zohreen Shah, an ABC Correspondent, who lost her home in the Palisades fire.
“I have questions and demands: Insurance companies need to give policyholders what we are owed. The rebuilding process cannot take so long. Permitting offices appear to need far more staffing. It appears there may have been many preventable scenarios. There is a CA gubernatorial election in 2026, a presidential election and the LA Olympics in 2028. Politicians will need to show results - and fast. I’m determined to find answers. This journey is personal. I hope when people see me on TV or TikTok, they know they’re watching someone who saw her dream home turn to rubble - and is fighting to build it back again.”
“Everyone got out safe. Katie and my house burned down. The whole town is gone. My parents, extended family and brother all lived in the Palisades. It was the only home we knew. The enormity of the situation is very overwhelming. Katie is 37 weeks pregnant, and I’m fully focused on my family right now. Thank you to everyone who has reached out and everyone who is helping. It is a long road ahead. We will rebuild,” said Samir Choudhary, a digital creator who also lost his home in the Palisades fire.
Where to donate to help the California wildfire victims
Here are a few reputable organizations where you can donate to help the victims of the California wildfires:
1. American Red Cross: Help people affected by wildfires by visiting redcross.org, calling 1-800-RED CROSS (800-733-2767) or texting the word CAWILDFIRES to 90999 to make a donation. Your donation enables the Red Cross to prepare for, respond to and help people recover from these disasters.
2. Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation: The Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation supports the LAFD in its efforts to protect and serve the community. Their programs assist with fire prevention and recovery, as well as providing resources to those impacted by fires. Call (310) 552-4139 to donate via phone. Your credit card and contact information will be collected to process the donation.
3. California Community Foundation: The California Community Foundation’s “Wildfire Relief Fund” supports both immediate relief and long-term recovery. Visit the California Community Foundation’s Wildfire Relief Fund page here.
4. CAL FIRE Benevolent Foundation: The CAL FIRE Benevolent Foundation provides funding for first responders and their families to help them recover from injuries and hardship. Learn more here.
Several local businesses and smaller nonprofits in fire-affected areas are working tirelessly to provide relief. You can donate to them directly as well but beware of scams.
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