L.A. Fire Support

Yardi Donates to Direct Relief, World Kitchen

By Katrina McDowell on Jan 15, 2025 in Giving

The catastrophic fires in and around Los Angeles could potentially be one of the country’s most expensive natural disasters and are already among the deadliest in state history. Yardi is supporting two non-profit organizations, Direct Relief and World Central Kitchen, that are aiding the evacuation and recovery efforts for victims.

Over 150,000 residents were forced to evacuate, at least 24 people have died (at time of publication, rescuers are continuing to search for missing persons), and thousands of homes, businesses and other structures have been damaged or destroyed.

Yardi announced this week that its nonprofit arm is making a contribution of $250,000 to Direct Relief and World Central Kitchen.

“These remarkable organizations have, once again, jumped to action and are already providing timely support and resources (water, food, N95 masks, and much more) to the first responders and individuals displaced by the fires,” said Sarah Bridich, director of corporate philanthropy at Yardi.

Direct Relief

Direct Relief, a Goleta, CA-based disaster relief and medical assistance organization, is tirelessly providing essential aid. Direct Relief’s mission is to protect residents, support healthcare providers, and address the immediate needs of those affected. The ongoing nature of the fires underscores the need for sustained support and resources.

“Direct Relief has made more than $100 million available in medicines and medical supplies, including 2.3 million high-quality N95 respirators, to community health centers, free and charitable clinics, and other healthcare partners in affected areas,” said Tom Roane, director of corporate engagement and strategy for Direct Relief.

Roane continued: “Direct Relief stockpiles wildfire-related kits, PPE, inhalers, and other medical and emergency products in its Strategic Emergency Stockpile so that it can immediately respond to the needs in this type of emergency.” 

In addition to delivering highly needed medical aid, Direct Relief is providing emergency operating grants to community safety-net clinics serving evacuated residents and others impacted by fires to sustain ongoing care during the active crisis and support their staff (some of whom have lost their homes).

You can support Direct Relief’s fire response efforts here.

World Central Kitchen

World Central Kitchen (WCK) mobilized across the Southern California region to provide immediate relief, working with restaurant and food truck partners to provide comforting meals. In Santa Monica, WCK is working with Gordo Hibachi, cooking delicious rice and noodle dishes to support first responders working tirelessly to control the blaze and support evacuation efforts.

Actress Jennifer Garner recently joined WCK teams in Southern California to support first responders and residents impacted by the wildfires. “Her empathy embodies the spirit that drives our mission—it’s these fast-moving efforts of neighbors that are making a difference in the lives of families impacted by fires,” said the organization.

Check out the locations where WCK distributes free hot meals to the public in greater L.A. You can donate directly in support of their work here.

Yardi has consistently contributed to Direct Relief and World Central Kitchen in the aftermath of natural disasters and other crises, including the war in Ukraine. If you’re interested in supporting these efforts, you can find more information on the company’s philanthropic efforts on yardi.org and learn how to help.