The Change Reaction Starts Relief Drive with $10M Donation

LOS ANGELES (CNS) – The Change Reaction direct-giving foundation has launched an emergency relief fund in response to the devastating wildfires impacting Los Angeles County with an initial gift of $10 million, it was announced Thursday.

The Change Reaction Wildfire Direct Giving Fund said it would utilize its network of more than 250 partner organizations and 2,000 social workers and impact leaders to identify those who have been affected by the fires.

Created in 2019, foundation developed its direct giving platform to provide critical financial assistance to stabilize hardworking families. Its existing network of nonprofits includes all the largest hospitals, schools and organizations focused on working families, foster youth, homeless individuals, veterans and seniors.

Since its inception, the Change Reaction has given over $42 million to nearly 38,000 families facing short-term financial crises, according to the foundation.

Initially, the Wildfire Direct Giving Fund will focus on essential workers who lost their homes, including social workers, hospital workers, and teachers who need to be stabilized before they can begin to help in the recovery and rebuilding process. Secondly, fund will activate its social worker network to identify families who have lost homes and have been displaced, small businesses that have been forced to shut down, and employees who have lost jobs all due to these devastating fires.

Direct assistance grants will be up to $5,000 and will be fully vetted by its partners, available immediately and without red tape, the organization said.

“As LA’s direct giving foundation, the Change Reaction was built for moments like this, where speed and direct impact are crucial,” Greg Perlman, founder of the Change Reaction, said in a statement.

“While general relief funds are essential and take time to grow, people need immediate help to stabilize their lives today. That is exactly what the Change Reaction provides — immediate cash assistance to support the individuals who hold our community together.”