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Jay Shetty raises $500,000 in fundraiser for LA wildfire victims

The Indian American podcaster organized the relief event at Hotel Bel-Air with the mission, ‘Let’s work on rebuilding LA together’.

Jay Shetty / Instagram/@sunmoonrain

Indian-origin author, podcaster, and life coach Jay Shetty recently organized a high-profile fundraiser to support children and families impacted by the devastating Los Angeles wildfires.

The event, with the mission ‘Let’s work on rebuilding LA together’, was held at the Hotel Bel-Air in LA, California, and was organized by several prominent Indian Americans, including his wife, wellness advocate, and entrepreneur Radhi Devlukia; entrepreneur Anita Verma-Lallian; and business leader Satnil Lallian, to raise vital funds and awareness for those in need.

Partnering with Baby2Baby, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing necessities to children living in poverty, Shetty spearheaded the initiative to offer immediate relief to families who lost their homes and belongings in the fires. Baby2Baby has already distributed over four million emergency supplies, including diapers, formula, food, and water, to children affected by the disaster.

In a heartfelt Instagram post, Shetty expressed the depth of the losses suffered by many, writing:
“People didn't lose houses; they lost homes. They lost the place where memories were made, where they felt safe and seen. The walls that held their stories, the rooms where their lives unfolded. People didn't lose things; they lost pieces of themselves… To those directly affected, our hearts are with you, and we’re here to help. To the firefighters and first responders risking their lives, you remind us of the power of selfless service. To those that are safe, let us figure out ways to help others rebuild.”

Shetty also emphasized the importance of collective action, urging people to donate and support Baby2Baby’s ongoing relief efforts.

Anita Verma-Lallian, a dynamic entrepreneur known for her commitment to South Asian representation in media, was among the notable attendees. As the founder of Camelback Productions, the first South Asian-owned film production company in the US, and the head of Arizona Land Consulting, Verma-Lallian continues to make significant strides across various industries. Recently, she made headlines after purchasing the former home of Friends star Matthew Perry. Her firm Camelback Productions was the co-organizer of this fundraiser.

Radhi Devlukia, a New York Times bestselling author, plant-based cook, and co-founder of Juni Tea, also lent her support to the cause. Devlukia, who is married to Shetty, has been a vocal advocate for wellness and community-driven initiatives.

The fundraiser not only aimed to provide financial assistance but also served as a testament to the resilience and compassion of the community. Shetty and his team have personally contributed to the initiative and are working to amplify their efforts through donations and awareness campaigns.

“In times of great challenge, our resilience and compassion are put to the test. The recent fires have brought devastation, but they've also revealed the strength of a community that refuses to give up. Together, we can transform pain into purpose and loss into love,” Shetty added in his social media message.

“LA has been our home for nearly 7 years now, and I’m heartbroken for so many friends and people for their loss.”

Shabnam Melwani, founder of the intentional jewelry brand SunMoonRain, was among the notable attendees at the fundraiser.

In an Instagram post, she reflected on the event's impact, highlighting a guided meditation led by Shetty and the successful auction of exclusive items, which collectively raised over $500,000—bringing them halfway toward their $1 million goal.

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