Californians -particularly L.A. residents- are often painted as snobbish narcissists who detest anyone who outperforms them. Though this can be true for many cases, the recent crisis has revealed the compassionate morals of celebrities, influencers and average citizens.

The California wildfires began around January 9th 2025 and have since devastated 37.000+ acres; entire forests, homes and businesses have been wiped out in less than 3 weeks. The state has always been prone to long-lasting wildfires due to its dry air and abundance of dry foliage. These recent wildfires have gained more attention due to the sheer destruction, but also how residents have fought against this disaster.

Celebrities donating to relief campaigns is a common occurrence. Though helpful, financial compensation does not portray as much strength as volunteer work. To a lot of people’s surprise (both in and out of the state), many celebrities have been physically pitching in to help. Icons such as Paris Hilton, Jessica Alba and Dave Grohl have all gone to volunteer facilities or pop-ups to help distribute food, baby supplies and raise awareness about wildfires.

Apart from celebrities, citizens themselves have taken up tasks to help those displaced because of the fires. Setting up temporary living spaces is hard enough, but collecting supplies for hygiene, infants and pets is also an obstacle. The overwhelming support from Californians in the form of product donations has helped offset the tragedy and is a great start for recovery.

Though still ongoing, the aftermath of these wildfires will undoubtedly be devastating; families will be without homes, people will be lost and California will have a lot of rebuilding to complete. The road to some form of normalcy is difficult, but genuine displays of selflessness and support re-sparks the faith needed to recover.