In response to the recent devastating wildfires in Los Angeles that have caused widespread destruction and loss of life, a nonprofit based in LA is providing fast and unrestricted financial assistance to affected individuals. The Change Reaction, a philanthropic organization founded by real estate investor Greg Perlman and his wife Jodi, has already distributed cash payments of up to $5,000 to 3,000 people in LA to help them address urgent needs in one of the nation’s most expensive cities.
Describing the cash payments as essential like oxygen, Greg Perlman, the founder and primary funder of The Change Reaction, explained that he and his wife initially contributed $10 million to establish the Wildfire Direct Giving Fund, with nearly half of the funds already dispensed. The financial aid is supporting individuals like Katherine Anderson, an 80-year-old who lost her home of over 30 years in the recent Eaton Fire.
Having been displaced to Montebello and sharing a motel room with others, Anderson received a text inviting her to a Change Reaction event at Pasadena City College where she received financial relief without any paperwork or restrictions on how to use the funds. Anderson expressed her gratitude for the aid, stating that she intends to use it towards securing a new place to live to regain stability.
The quick cash assistance provided by organizations like The Change Reaction plays a vital role in stabilizing households during times of crisis, according to experts. This immediate support can help prevent individuals from falling into debt or foregoing essential needs, while also empowering households to make decisions on how to best utilize the resources available to them.
Established in 2019, The Change Reaction has been offering financial relief in Los Angeles by partnering with a network of nonprofits and community advocates who can swiftly apply for aid on behalf of individuals facing financial emergencies. With a focus on empowering trusted community leaders to distribute funds promptly and efficiently, The Change Reaction aims to provide much-needed support to those affected by disasters like the recent wildfires in LA.
In the wake of devastating wildfires that swept across Los Angeles and impacted tens of thousands of individuals, The Change Reaction swiftly mobilized to provide immediate assistance. Collaborating with clergy members in the Pacific Palisades and Altadena areas, the organization identified households in need and began distributing financial aid. They dispersed checks ranging from $1,000 for evacuated individuals to $2,500-$5,000 for those facing more urgent situations. Thanks to a generous $1 million donation from GoFundMe, they were also able to distribute $500 gift cards.
Recognizing the urgent need for support, Pastor Charles Johnson of Cochrane Avenue Baptist Church commended The Change Reaction for their proactive approach in reaching affected individuals. He expressed concerns about families struggling with lack of access to meals due to school closures and being displaced to distant accommodations without cooking facilities. While FEMA was providing some assistance, Johnson emphasized that the cost of living in LA exceeded the amount received, making additional aid essential.
In response to recent natural disasters, various organizations including GiveDirectly and the Community Foundation of Sarasota County have expanded their cash relief initiatives. The Change Reaction’s event in Altadena saw 1,000 recipients lining up to receive assistance, highlighting the challenges of reaching all those in need efficiently. President Wade Trimmer acknowledged the limitations in helping everyone at present and emphasized the importance of community leaders in identifying those most in need.
Having already distributed thousands of checks, The Change Reaction is now focusing on addressing new housing-related costs and supporting vulnerable populations, such as those in the foster system and the elderly. With a goal of raising $50 million to aid the ongoing relief efforts, the organization remains committed to swiftly disbursing funds to those in need. As beneficiaries like Angelica Martinez expressed gratitude for the assistance received, The Change Reaction continues to work towards providing essential support to individuals impacted by the wildfires.
“Every little thing is a gift,” she expressed. “This assistance marks the initial support we have received.” —— The Associated Press’ reporting on charitable activities and organizations is backed by its partnership with The Conversation US, supported by funding from the Lilly Endowment Inc. The Associated Press bears sole responsibility for the content presented in this regard. To explore further philanthropic coverage by the AP, please visit https://apnews.com/hub/philanthropy.
