Southern California, particularly the Los Angeles area, has been devastated by multiple wildfires, leaving many in urgent need of support. If you want to help but can’t spare cash donations, cleaning out your closets and cupboards to donate items could be a meaningful way to make a difference. In this guide, we’ve outlined non-profit organizations currently seeking donations, what items are most needed, and how to get in touch with them.

While there’s been an initial rush of generosity, some organizations may need to reassess their needs before accepting additional donations. Consider bookmarking this guide to revisit when donation drives open back up.

Potential Donation Items to Collect:

• Clothing – this is an obvious one, but you may also have accessories like belts and shoes that could be of use as well. 
• Personal Care Items – another big need includes new products for hygiene and self-care; perhaps you have travel size bottles hiding under the sink or extras you can do without. 
• Outdoor items – tents, sleeping bags, air mattresses. 
• Household items – towels, trash bags, toilet paper, small appliances.

Downtown Women’s Center

This nonprofit accepts donations by appointment only. See their list of current needs here to see if it aligns with items you hope to give.  

Appointments to donate can be made here. 

442 S. San Pedro Street
Los Angeles, CA 90013
(213) 680-0600

Goodwill Southern California

The Goodwill has many locations throughout Los Angeles County. They generally accept clothing and small household items. Some locations have donation pick-up available. Find the one nearest to you here. 

Los Angeles Regional Food Bank

The Food Bank is accepting food donations at their two distribution centers from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, and 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday.

Distribution Centers:

1734 East 41st St. 
Los Angeles, California 90058

2300 Pellissier Place 
Industry, CA 90601

Los Angeles Mission 

This charity typically serves the unhoused communities of Los Angeles but has stepped in to support wildfire relief efforts as well. They have a dedicated web form for people who want to help organize drives, volunteer, or donate. Items the Los Angeles Mission regularly collects include: 

• Hygiene items and kits 
• Canned food
• Shelf-stable food 
• Clothing in all sizes sorted into boxes or bags and labeled by gender (men, women, children). 

Donation Drop Off Centers

351 S. Anderson Street
Los Angeles CA, 90033

Hours:
Monday -Friday 9:30am – 4pm
Closed Saturday-Sunday

316 Winston St.
Los Angeles, CA 90013

Hours:
Saturday 8am-4pm

L.A. Works

If you are looking for other ways to help or volunteer check out this page by L.A. Works. There is a large need for volunteers in a number of areas so if you don’t have goods or cash to give, you can give the gift of your time to help organize donations, make and distribute meals, or assist in other areas. 

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When disaster strikes, it’s heartwarming to see communities come together to support those in need. By donating items or volunteering your time, you can play a part in helping Southern California recover. Whether you’re cleaning out your closets, organizing a drive, or lending a helping hand, your efforts matter. Remember to check with each organization for updated needs and guidelines before donating. Every contribution, big or small, makes a difference.