Rebuilding Los Angeles: How builders can support relief and recovery in the aftermath of the 2025 wildfires

The catastrophic wildfires that ravaged Los Angeles have left communities devastated. According to NBC News, the fires have swept through 40,000 acres in the Greater Los Angeles area, destroying entire communities and more than 12,300 structures. As of Jan. 14, 2025, there have been at least 24 fatalities, with 16 individuals still unaccounted for according to the Associated Press.

In response, home builder associations across the nation have mobilized to provide critical support for fire relief and cleanup efforts.

As members of this industry, we have the power to make a significant impact by contributing funds, offering our expertise, and providing critical building materials. Buildertrend is donating $5,000 to the American Red Cross to support ongoing relief efforts – and we encourage you to join us to help make a difference.

Together, we have the ability to restore communities and bring hope to those impacted by this devastating event. Here’s a look at how local home builder associations are stepping up – and how you can join their efforts.

National home builder associations mobilize for Los Angeles wildfire relief

In the wake of the Los Angeles wildfires, several home builder associations have launched coordinated efforts to assist affected communities in the greater Los Angeles area.

Habitat for Humanity

Committed to long-term recovery, Habitat for Humanity is focusing on rebuilding homes and communities impacted by the wildfires. They’re working to ensure that families affected by the disaster have safe and stable housing options.

All Hands and Hearts

All Hands and Hearts, a nonprofit known for its rapid response to disasters, is dedicated to providing long-term relief and rebuilding efforts in the hardest-hit areas. They’ve mobilized volunteers to assist with the immediate cleanup and reconstruction of homes. Their approach involves hands-on work, including debris removal, mucking out homes and rebuilding efforts to ensure affected families can return to safe and stable living conditions. You can get involved by volunteering or making a donation.  

California Fire Foundation

The California Fire Foundation has been a key player in supporting victims of the 2025 Los Angeles wildfires, as well as the brave firefighters battling these catastrophic blazes. This nonprofit organization offers immediate financial assistance to families of fallen firefighters and distributes emergency funds to those directly affected by fires. You can make a donation to help sustain their programs like Supplying Aid to Victims of Emergency and other relief efforts.

California Community Foundation

CCF has created a dedicated recovery fund to support wildfire relief in Los Angeles County. Donations are being allocated directly to disaster relief funds to complement immediate relief, addressing the long-term recovery needs of neighborhoods.

California Building Industry Association

CBIA is actively involved in supporting fire relief and cleanup operations. They’re working with public agencies and utility services to provide assistance to affected communities. CBIA also offers resources on fire safety and preparedness, emphasizing the importance of building homes that are resilient to wildfires.

How builders like you can use your talents to give back

Builders play a crucial role in the recovery process. Here are several ways you can contribute:

Donate to relief funds

The easiest way to contribute is by making financial donations to organizations. These funds go directly to rebuilding efforts and are essential for providing immediate relief and supporting long-term rehabilitation.

Volunteer time and expertise

If you’re able, reaching out to the above organizations to offer your time and professional skills can significantly impact recovery efforts. You can participate in rebuilding homes, providing construction expertise and assisting with cleanup operations.

Provide materials and equipment

Donating construction materials, tools and equipment is another great way to help reduce costs and expedite the rebuilding process. You can coordinate with local relief organizations to supply necessary resources.

Support fire-resistant building practices

You can advocate for and implement fire-resistant construction techniques and materials, such as those promoted by CBIA. This approach not only aids in recovery but also enhances the resilience of future homes against wildfires.

Engage in community planning

You can also collaborate with local governments and planning agencies to develop strategies for rebuilding that consider fire safety, sustainable development and community resilience.

How the National Association of Home Builders is supporting local builders

The National Association of Home Builders is stepping up to provide critical support by partnering with state builder associations. They’ve called on builders nationwide to contribute to disaster relief funds and actively engage in recovery initiatives. They also offer valuable resources on disaster response and rebuilding, available through their website, to guide builders in supporting affected communities effectively.

These wildfires have underscored the critical need for coordinated efforts in disaster relief and recovery. Home builder associations and individual builders are pivotal in supporting fire relief and cleanup initiatives. By donating resources, volunteering time and expertise and advocating for fire-resistant building practices, you can make a significant impact on the recovery and resilience of affected communities.