Fire Relief Efforts
Several Hollywood stars have stepped up to support fire relief efforts in the United States following devastating wildfires around Los Angeles. The fires, described as the most destructive in the city’s history, have claimed at least 16 lives, destroyed over 12,000 structures, and reduced entire neighborhoods to smoldering ruins.
Combined, the two largest fires have consumed 35,000 acres (14,100 hectares), an area equivalent to 54 square miles or two and a half times the size of Manhattan.
The scale of the disaster has displaced thousands, with 153,000 people under evacuation orders and another 166,800 facing evacuation warnings. A curfew remains in effect across evacuation zones, according to Los Angeles County Sheriff Robert Luna.
Amidst the tragedy, community efforts have brought hope. At a charity event in Los Angeles, a therapy dog named Jackie Robinson greeted visitors as they shopped for items such as dresses, coats, denim, shoes, and handbags. Donations ranged from new items like Target underwear to gently used designer pieces from brands like Gucci and Ferragamo.
Event organizer Cooper highlighted the overwhelming response from across Los Angeles, including contributions from actors, executives, lawyers, restaurant owners, and mothers.
Actresses Sharon Stone and Halle Berry responded enthusiastically, donating clothing, handbags, shoes, and other items from their wardrobes. “I’m packing up my entire closet,” Berry shared on Instagram, urging others in Southern California to contribute.
Hollywood stylist Lisa Cera, known for working with celebrities like the Kardashians and Lenny Kravitz, volunteered her time and donated items. “I know people who have lost everything. It’s devastating,” she said, emphasizing the importance of giving back.
Ellen Bennett, shopping for her 72-year-old mother who lost her home in the fires, expressed gratitude for the community’s support. “It’s heartwarming to see people helping each other during this tragedy,” she said.
Other notable figures joined the effort. Angelina Jolie revealed she has housed fire victims in her Los Feliz home and plans to donate further to relief initiatives.
Jamie Lee Curtis and her husband contributed $1 million, while Kylie Jenner, Mark Zuckerberg, Prince Harry, and Meghan Markle also extended support. Jennifer Garner volunteered with a nonprofit providing meals to affected families.
Store owner Cooper, who led the charity effort, described helping a man find sneakers so he could enjoy running on the beach again. “This city is full of love, and everyone wants to help,” she said, reflecting on the resilience and generosity of Los Angeles residents during this challenging time.
