CAA, Sean Penn’s CORE and LAUSD Launch Fund to Aid Wildfire Recovery

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As a passionate supporter, I’m excited to share that in response to the devastating wildfires affecting numerous communities across Southern California, I’ve witnessed the CAA Foundation, the charitable arm of Creative Artists Agency, team up with CORE (Community Organized Relief Effort), the aid organization co-founded by Sean Penn and Ann Lee, and the Los Angeles Unified School District Education Foundation. Together, they have initiated the SoCal Fire Fund, a united effort to provide relief and support during these challenging times.

The SoCal Fire Relief Fund aims to assist students, educators, and affected families following the 2025 wildfires. Kicking off with contributions from CAA executives, the coalition invites more collaborators to join forces in this endeavor. The fund will be managed by the Entertainment Industry Foundation (EIF).

Natalie Tran, executive director of the CAA Foundation, stated that the devastation felt by neighbors in Los Angeles is immense and requires a strong, caring, and adaptable response. This response should focus on meeting both their immediate and long-term needs for recovery. We appreciate the assistance of our long-standing partners in providing this specialized and comprehensive approach. We extend an invitation to everyone – individuals, networks, and companies alike – to collaborate with us as we navigate through this ongoing crisis.

One of several ongoing aid initiatives is the SoCal Fire Fund, set up to help those affected by the devastating fires that have claimed eleven lives, razed over 10,000 buildings, and forced evacuations in Pacific Palisades, Malibu, Altadena, Pasadena, and numerous other city areas.

Disney is planning to give $15 million towards different relief projects, such as the American Red Cross and the Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation; Live Nation is organizing a charitable concert called “FireAid” at the Staples Center on January 30th; and GoFundMe has created a central platform for verified fundraising pages related to the fires.

As a passionate supporter, I’m excited to share that the SoCal Fire Fund has been established with a focus on ensuring fair and flexible recovery for all affected communities, particularly those most at risk.

Ann Lee, CORE’s co-founder and CEO, explained how their team of case managers across Los Angeles County will leverage our existing infrastructure to aid those affected by the fires in rebuilding their lives over the long term. CORE has been a part of wildfire relief efforts in California for quite some time now. Their collaboration with the SoCal Fire Fund is geared towards providing immediate assistance to families and individuals who have lost their homes due to the fires, while also planning for future initiatives to bolster communities that are economically disadvantaged.

Beyond just working alongside the LAUSD, the LAUSD Education Foundation plans to join forces with nearby school districts such as the Greater Los Angeles Education Foundation and the Pasadena Education Foundation.

Alberto M. Carvalho, head of the Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD), stated that our local schools serve as vital community centers, providing resources, connections, and security. He emphasized that LAUSD will collaborate with the LAUSD Education Foundation, nearby districts, and other partners to swiftly, precisely, and strategically deliver aid to families and staff during this difficult period, by leveraging the strength of public-private partnerships.

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2025-01-11 06:26