Supporting LA’s Heroes and Victims: How Local Businesses Are Making a Difference Amid the Fires
- By: Julianne Elise Beffa
Angelenos Unite…
Los Angeles, the vibrant city we at Loop are proud to call home, is facing a difficult time. While we typically celebrate the latest in nightlife, fashion, and hospitality, we pause to acknowledge the devastating fires that have impacted our beloved city. In the wake of this tragedy, we are reminded of the resilience and unity that define our community.
Angelenos have come together, opening their hearts and spaces to support fire victims and first responders. It’s in times like these that Los Angeles reveals its true spirit—a city of compassion, where neighbors support one another, and communities stand strong.
Small businesses across the city have joined forces to provide safe havens, essential resources, and heartfelt gestures to those affected. To honor their efforts, we’ve compiled a list of restaurants, clothing stores, hotels, and fitness studios stepping up to give back. Their contributions remind us all of the power of community and the beauty of standing together in adversity. It is our hope that our dear readers will use this as a guide to help them navigate these difficult times. We are here for you, and we support you.
Accomodation:
The Godfrey Hotel Hollywood: Discounted Rates for Fire Victims and First Responders
The Godfrey Hotel Hollywood is extending a helping hand to those whose homes have been affected by the fires and to first responders actively working on the front lines. The hotel is offering discounted rates for relief accommodations, waiving standard cancellation policies to allow guests to cancel without penalty if their plans change. This effort underscores the hotel’s commitment to providing much-needed flexibility and support during a time of crisis.
Evacuee rates and rooms can be booked here.
First responder rates and rooms can be booked here.
1400 Cahuenga Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90028
Airbnb Teams Up with 211 LA to Offer Free Temporary Housing
In partnership with 211 LA, Airbnb is providing free temporary housing for individuals displaced by the wildfires in Los Angeles County. This initiative ensures that those affected have a safe and comfortable place to stay while they navigate the challenges of recovery. For more information and to access this resource, visit CS Care.
Big Bear Offers Rest and Refuge for Fire Evacuees
Big Bear, a beloved retreat destination, has opened its doors to evacuees seeking a peaceful place to rest and regroup. A selection of vacation homes and hotels has been specially designated for the needs of those displaced by the fires. This initiative provides much-needed respite for individuals and families affected by the crisis.
For more information on available lodging for LA County fire evacuees, visit LA County Fire Evacuee Lodging | Big Bear Lake, CA.
Additional Accomodation…
El Camino Real Charter High School: 5440 Valley Circle Blvd., Woodland Hills
Ritchie Valens Recreation Center: 10736 Laurel Canyon Blvd, Pacoima
Sepulveda Recreation Center: Address: 8825 Kester Avenue, Panorama City
Dining:
Calamigos Ranch: Breakfast Burritos and More
Nestled in Malibu, Calamigos Ranch has transformed its Beach Club restaurant into a haven for fire victims. Every day through the weekend, the restaurant is offering free breakfast burritos from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Guests can dine on-site, take food to go, and even recharge their phones or laptops in the space.
26025 Pacific Coast Highway, Malibu, CA 90265
Met Her At a Bar: Free Meals
Located near Beverly Hills, Met Her At a Bar is offering free meals during regular business hours, this location invites first responders and their crews to enjoy a comforting meal on the house.
Highland Park Brewery: Complimentary Lunch
Open all weekend, the brewery is offering free lunch specials for first responders, evacuees, and anyone affected by the fires. Guests can choose from a variety of dishes, including the HPB Burger, vegan chipotle burger, fried chicken sandwich, and chef Caroline’s famous chili.
1220 N Spring St, Los Angeles, CA 90012
Shake Shack Offers Free Shackburgers to First Responders
Shake Shack is showing its appreciation for first responders by offering a free Shackburger at all locations. This gesture is a small token of gratitude for their bravery and dedication during the ongoing wildfire crisis. Stop by for a well-deserved treat!
Additional Dining…
Blaze Pizza at the Glendale Galleria is offering free 11-inch pizzas to evacuees and first responders. Options include popular choices like four cheese, pepperoni, Red Vine, and Herbivore.
3210 Glendale Galleria in Glendale.
Tatsu Ramen is providing free takeout orders of its plant-based Hippie Bowl for first responders and evacuees.
319-9 S Arroyo Parkway in Pasadena from noon to 3 p.m.
The Yeastie Boys Bagel Truck is stationed outside the Pasadena Convention Center and giving away free bagels to evacuees and first responders.
300 E Green Street in Pasadena.
World Central Kitchen, renowned for its disaster relief efforts, is offering free meals to evacuees and first responders.
300 E Green Street in Pasadena.
Transportation…
Uber Offers Free Rides to Evacuation Shelters for LA County Residents
For residents of Los Angeles County ordered to evacuate due to the fires, Uber is stepping in to help ease the burden. The company is offering a $40 credit for trips to active evacuation shelters. To redeem the credit, users can apply the code WILDFIRE25 when booking their ride. This initiative ensures that those in need have a safe and reliable way to reach shelter during these challenging times.
Lyft Supports Wildfire Relief with Free Ride Vouchers
Lyft is offering assistance to those impacted by the California wildfires by providing $25 vouchers for two trips (a total of $50). This promotion is available to 2,000 customers and is valid until midnight on January 15. To claim the offer, use the code CAFIRERELIEF25 when booking your rides. This initiative aims to help individuals safely navigate during this time of need, whether it’s traveling to shelters or accessing essential resources.
Clothing:
Aerie: Free Clothing for Fire Victims
Loungewear and activewear brand Aerie, in collaboration with social media influencer Lindsay Weiss, is providing fire victims with essential clothing items. From tops and bottoms to bras, pajamas, and underwear, Lindsay’s initiative ensures that those affected have access to clean and comfortable attire. Fire victims can fill out an online Google form to request a package, which will be shipped directly to them.
Coop Boutique: Clothing Donations
Jenna Cooper’s boutique, Coop, located on Beverly Boulevard in Los Angeles, is extending a helping hand to individuals and families impacted by the fires. Coop is offering free clothing, including pants, jackets, shirts, sweaters, and shoes.
7278 Beverly Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90036
Exercise…
Sweat Cycle: Charity Rides and Free Classes for First Responders
Sweat Cycle, an indoor cycling studio located in Toluca Lake, is offering free cycling classes throughout January to first responders and individuals who have lost their homes due to the fires. The studio hopes to provide a space for physical and emotional relief during these difficult times.
Additionally, Sweat Cycle is hosting two charity rides this week, with proceeds going to the Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation. The studio is also collecting donations for various organizations assisting victims of the fires. Updates about these collection efforts will be shared soon, highlighting the studio’s dedication to ongoing relief efforts.
To redeem free rides, those eligible can email info@swtcycle.com.
Planet Fitness Offers Free Facility Access to Evacuees and First Responders
Planet Fitness is extending support to wildfire evacuees and first responders by offering free access to their facilities. This includes showers, locker rooms, and Wi-Fi, providing a much-needed space for rest and recovery. The offer is valid until January 15. To take advantage of this resource, contact your nearest Planet Fitness location for more information.
A Community United
The LA fires have brought immense challenges, but the response from small businesses has been nothing short of inspiring. These acts of kindness and generosity demonstrate the strength of the Los Angeles community and the unwavering spirit of its residents.
If you or someone you know has been impacted by the fires, consider visiting these businesses for support. Whether it’s a warm meal, essential clothing, or a moment to recharge, these services remind us that, together, we can rebuild and heal.