Promoting Disaster Preparedness: CAA and Americares Unite to Support LA Communities

On January 8, 2026, a significant milestone was marked in Los Angeles as Creative Artists Agency (CAA) collaborated with Americares to honor the one-year anniversary of the catastrophic wildfires that plagued the area. This initiative not only commemorated the devastation but also aimed to strengthen the community's resilience against future disasters through effective preparedness measures.

The wildfires, which ravaged vast areas, resulted in the loss of 31 lives and destroyed over 16,000 structures. The community felt the impact directly, with nearly 250,000 residents affected and many forced to evacuate their homes abruptly. In light of this, CAA and Americares focused on equipping local families with essential emergency supplies, emphasizing the importance of being prepared in the event of another disaster.

The event took place at CAA's Los Angeles office, where enthusiastic volunteers from both organizations worked tirelessly to assemble hundreds of emergency go bags. These kits are designed to be ready for quick evacuation, each containing a first aid kit, masks, hygiene products, and other critical items that families might need in a hurry. The goal was simple yet profound: to provide peace of mind and practical support to those in need.

Olivia Brooks, Executive at CAA, expressed the emotional weight of the event, stating, "The wildfires had a devastating impact on our community, making this emergency deeply personal for us. We saw firsthand how lives were upended and how long the road to recovery can be. Together with Americares, we are helping communities across Southern California be better prepared when the next disaster strikes."

Americares, renowned for its global health and disaster relief efforts, donated the completed go bags to Vida Mobile Clinic, which will distribute them to families in areas most affected by the fires. Each bag includes a list of suggested items for personalization, enabling families to add medications, children's needs, or pet supplies as necessary.

Saqi Cho, Vice President of U.S. Programs at Americares, highlighted a crucial aspect of this initiative: "Having a go bag ready and easily accessible saves valuable time when you need to evacuate quickly. With more frequent and intense storms and dangerous wildfires, protecting loved ones is more crucial than ever. A go bag should be an essential component of every family's emergency plan.”

This volunteer effort served as a poignant reminder of the past while also promoting proactive steps for the future. Americares had previously responded to the wildfires with 5 tons of medicine and relief supplies, providing emergency funding to assist survivors in rebuilding their lives. With the pressing nature of climate change, events like these stand as testaments to the power of community action.

In addition to immediate relief efforts, Americares is committed to educating the public on how to prepare for wildfires and other emergencies. They provide free guides accessible on their website, encouraging families to take charge of their safety and preparedness.

As we reflect on the impact of the LA wildfires, it becomes apparent that collaboration and community spirit are vital in navigating the challenges posed by natural disasters. The partnership between CAA and Americares shines brightly, offering a hopeful path toward resilience in the face of future crises.

For more information on how to prepare for emergencies or to access the helpful resources provided by Americares, visit americares.org/climate.

This initiative highlights the importance of being proactive and prepared. It is not only about remembering the past but also about taking actionable steps towards safety and well-being for years to come.