Los Angeles Wildfires Resources Support

Community

Help Resources For Evacuated, Opportunities for Donors  

I've lived in Los Angeles for 40+ years and have never seen anything like the California wildfires still burning and ravaging homes, as well as businesses and other types of properties like schools. Help and hope can now be found just about anywhere you look across LA and LA County. LA  granted, can be a very materialistic place to live with multi-million dollar homes, expensive cars and other luxuries. However, despite the massive size of our city measuring almost 469 square miles (and a county that's 4,083 square miles), it is truly inspiring to see how much Los Angelinos are now banding together as a community to provide support and resources to those affected by the fires, especially families with kids who have lost everything including their homes this past week.

Emergency Shelters for People, Pets and Horses

There any shelters are open for families and singles including

LA Area People Shelters

• American Red Cross, for information on how to help and for assistance with shelters call 800-RED CROSS or download the RedCross.org app
• El Camino Real Charter High School, 5540 Valley Circle Blvd., Woodland Hills, CA 91367
• Westwood Recreation Center, 1350 S. Sepulveda Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90025
• Sepulveda Recreation Center, 8825 Kester Ave., Panorama City, CA 91402
• Ritchie Valens Recreation Center, 10736 Laurel Canyon Blvd., Pacoima, CA 91331
• Pasadena Convention Center, 300 E. Green St., Pasadena, CA 91101
• LA Dream Center, 2301 Bellevue Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90026
• Pan Pacific Recreation Center, 2301 Bellevue Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90026
• Pomona Fairplex, 1101 W. McKinley Ave., Pomona, CA 91768

LA Animal Shelters

• Agoura Animal Care Center, 29525 Agoura Rd., Agoura Hills, 91301
• Los Angeles Equestrian Center, 480 W. Riverside Dr., Burbank, 91506
• Pasadena Humane Society, 361 S. Raymond Ave., Pasadena, 91105
• Pierce College Equestrian Center, 7100 El Rancho Dr., Woodland Hills, 91367
• Rose Bowl Stadium, 1001 Rose Bowl Dr., Pasadena, 91103

Additional Support and Ways to Help

• Airbnb is offering Free emergency housing for the fire-impacted communities 
• UHaul is providing 30 days of FREE storage for those affected by the LA fires
• LA Arts Community Fire Relief Fund, a Getty-led coalition of major arts organizations, philanthropists and artists
• Emek Hebrew Academy, through their fire relief fund, is setting up meals for families displaced in Pasadena and Pacific Palisades. Call 818-783-3663 for information
• Hillel, is running a clothing drive for Pacific Palisades affected families. Clothing must be new. Information: Call or text 310-850-6651
• Chabad of Malibu is accepting donations of clothing, toiletries, kids toys, bedding, and food. For info: call 617-312-7068 or email drew@ldrventures.com
• Chabad of Pacific Palisades has organized a Palisades Emergency Support fundraising campaign (the goal is $250,000). If you or someone you know needs assistance, call 310-628-4444 or email info@chabadpalisades 
• Check this Wildfire Crisis Relief list for dozens of other Government and Community Resources
• Tail Town Cat Cafe in Pasadena is gathering and giving away pet supplies, food, litter, blankets, pet medical supplies to those with cats affected by the fires  
• Mutual Aid LA Network offers a constantly updated detailed list of donation drives and free items
• The LA Fires Relief and Resources list, compiled by IATSE (Intl Assoc of Theatrical Stage Employees) has a list available to the public with a wealth of resources including links to wildfire updates, information on housing and shelters, financial assistance, trauma and mental health support, recovery and legal resources, and more

How to Help - Volunteer Opportunities

• Our Big Kitchen (OBKLA), volunteers needed to prep fresh meals in LA for those in need as well as firefighters and emergency workers, email info@obkla.org for information
• For many other ways to pitch in and help to make a difference and help both humans and animals impacted by the wildfires in LA, check the Wildfire Crisis Relief list created by the Jewish Federation of Los Angeles

Please Comment With More Suggestions

A note from Mommy Blog Expert: This list we've created is my no means exhaustive. If you have additional suggestions for either helping those who have been evacuated or ways the public can help, please leave a comment including the details

Holiday Travel With Kids Tips Strategies

Parenting

Guest Post

by Dr. Suzanne Barchers

Educational Advisor, Lingokids

Traveling With Children During the Holidays 

For most people, the idea of traveling with kids sounds great, but the reality can be quite different. Here are some key things moms and dads should consider before booking a trip.

Before You Leave Home

• To prepare for a trip with children, have kids practice using a backpack or pulling a small suitcase and involve them in the steps of planning, organizing, and packing 
• Check if your airline or train offers early boarding to make the process smoother. 
• Engage with other parents for tips and advice, and if traveling by car, let the kids help choose snacks and activities
• Expect hiccups along the way and pack essentials like children’s Tylenol, sanitizing wipes, extra clothes, Band-Aids, and anything else that might address potential issues like ear infections (consult your doctor beforehand if flying) 
• Teach kids to pack daily outfits in gallon bags, include extras like swimsuits, and use a laundry bag with detergent for sink washes to keep their belongings organized and tidy

On travel day, allow extra time for each step, from reaching the transit center to getting seated. Bring multi-purpose items like hand sanitizer, which can clean, disinfect, or even serve as a fun distraction. Help kids engage with the trip by sharing fun facts and exploring books or videos about the destination and mode of travel. 

Hacks for Keeping Kids Occupied In Transit 

• Make travel with kids smoother by discussing protocols beforehand, including sharing space in a car,train, or airplane. Research engaging activities on sites like Lingokids.com or MomsMinivan.com for fun travel games. 
• Pack small new items to keep children entertained, such as toys, books, coloring books, or a new app like Lingokids. 
• Consider creative options like wipe-off boards, discovery bottles, or sensory balls, which can double as post-trip art tools (use them to roll paint across paper). 
• Include special treats for the journey, but be mindful of sugar content. 
• Finally, pack washi tape to let kids decorate their seat area, which can easily peel off when the trip ends.

Things to Avoid while Traveling

To ensure smooth and enjoyable travel with children, try to maintain their usual sleep and meal schedules as much as possible. When traveling internationally, exercise patience with jet lag and be understanding if your child experiences a meltdown. Limit sugary treats and fast food, try choosing sit-down meals for restful breaks. Avoid non-stop action by pacing your activities; assume you won’t see everything and plan for rest breaks to keep the experience enjoyable. Avoid conflicts over daily plans by creating a schedule in advance that allows input from all family members. Balance structured activities with downtime, like poolside relaxation, and incorporate quiet days into the itinerary. Finally, minimize cell phone use to stay present. For teens, encourage using phones primarily for taking pictures. 

Recommended Activities while Traveling

Traveling with kids can be a rewarding experience, and cruises are an excellent option for exploring multiple destinations without the hassle of constant packing and unpacking. When planning excursions, choose them together, avoiding overly long tours. Spending extended time in one city or region allows for a mix of structured tours and spontaneous walkabouts. Cooking classes and walking food tours provide fun, interactive ways to explore local flavors for all ages. Don’t shy away from including adult-oriented activities like wine or cheese tastings that can be adapted for kids with thoughtful planning, ensuring enriching experiences for the whole family. 

Activities to Avoid While Traveling

When planning activities with kids during a trip, it’s important to balance excitement with practicality. Long bus tours can quickly become tedious for young ones, and museum visits should be kept short to avoid exhausting them or making them feel dragged around. Beach outings should be carefully managed to prevent sunburn, hunger-induced meltdowns, or overexertion. Overall, don’t feel pressured to pack in every possible activity—leaving room for downtime can make the experience more enjoyable for everyone.

 

What Parents Should Do When Feeling Overwhelmed or Stressed 

When traveling with kids, it's essential to stay open and honest. Let them know when things are challenging and that you're doing your best. Be sure to build in breaks -- a quick coffee or juice stop can prevent meltdowns. Pack plenty of patience, and remember that while the mishaps like sudden rainstorms or spilled drinks might seem overwhelming now, they’ll fade, leaving behind cherished memories. Capture those moments with lots of photos and video and be sure to encourage kids to take some too, adding their perspective to the shared experience. 

Traveling with kids can be challenging, but with thoughtful preparation and a flexible mindset, it can also be a deeply rewarding experience. 

About the Author

Dr. Suzanne Barchers is Education Advisory Board Chair at Lingokids. Barchers is former VP of Leapfrog Enterprises; Award-winning author of 300+ books for educators and children; and has served on the Advisory Boards of PBS and the Association of Educational Publishers.

Hanukkah Best Gifts for Kids Adults Pets

Chanukah

Hanukkah begins at sundown December 25, 2024 - January 2, 2025

Unique Gifts Ideas for Kids, Grownups, Pets

I could not be more thrilled to share this Hanukkah gift guide with you featuring the hottest, best-selling collection of gift ideas you won't find gathered together quite like this in any other shopping guide. I'm so enthusiastic to share these ideas, not only because my own family celebrates the Jewish Festival of Lights, but because I personally love all the items I've curated for this collection of beautiful and unique affordable gift ideas. Whether you're shopping for Chanukah for kids, women, men, and or pets, there's something here to discover that would make the perfect gift for just about everyone on your list.

MBE partnered with Fairytale Brownies, this post also contains affiliate links

8 Nights of Gifts 

It's traditional for many families to exchange small gifts on each of the eight nights of the holiday of Hanukkah. Among the tunes young and old also enjoy singing is this folksong which is also sung in Yiddish by some ...

 

I Have a Little Dreidel (AKA The Dreidel Song)

I have a little dreidel, I made it out of clay.

And when it's dry and ready, then dreidel I shall play.

Oh dreidel, dreidel, dreidel, I made it out of clay.

Oh dreidel, dreidel, dreidel, then dreidel I shall play.

Now that you're in a festive mood, start scrolling, browsing to check out all the wonderful merchandise available this season. The majority of these items are inexpensive, making them ideal for giving as thoughtful gifts during each night of the 8-day holiday, all priced at much less than $100, except for one. You'll find clickable links to buy the items you really like in the product descriptions immediately below each gift guide page section.

Fun and Playful Kids Gift Ideas

Hanukkah is really all about the kids, right? Whether you're looking for screen free Hanukkah toys and books, festive decor, or something more practical like footie pajamas, these gift suggestions will make you, your kids and family smile.

Dreidel Menorah String Lights

A 6-foot string with 5 dreidel and 5 menorah lights to decorate your home or classroom

My Mini Wood Menorah 

A colorful wood menorah children will enjoy pretending to "light"

My First Xylophone Menorah

Kids will enjoy playing The Dreidel Song on this musical menorah

The Very Hungry Caterpillar's 8 Nights of Chanukah Board Book

This charming, sturdy book is a favorite for toddlers ages 1 to 3

Hanukkah Cotton Footed 2-Way Zip Pajamas 

An adorable one-piece in sizes preemie, newborn and 3, 6, 9 months

Hanukkah Bingo Game

Includes 18 game cards and everything needed to play

Build-A-Bear Hanukkah Gift Box

A gift box that magically reveals a fun, new surprise gift for 8 nights

Personalized Fabric Applique Menorah Wall Hanging

Add the name of a special child for a truly unique heirloom quality gift

Gifts for Girlfriends, Wives and Moms

All of the ideas for gals are just my style. So let's just say I'm dropping a hint to anyone who might be planning to surprise me with a gift that I will definitely love this Hanukkah.

Hanukkah Shopping Bag Ornament

This 4-inch glass Kurt Adler design is perfect for shopaholics

Delicate Menorah Stud Earrings

These colorful menorah Bauble Bar earrings are so festive and fun

Jeweled Blue Velvet Hanukkah Hairband

I couldn't wait for Hanukkah, so I already bought this one for me

Olivia Riegel Sophie Bronze Finish Pewter Menorah

An elegant menorah, with handpainted enamel encrusted with crystals

 

Blue Tile Accordian Pleated Maxi Dress

A luxurious blue tile flowy print dress in the prettiest hues of blue and white

Foodie, Entertaining, and Hostess Gifts

Fairytale Brownies Hanukkah Sampler Box - Kosher

These come boxed and individually wrapped (Hanukkah Sampler Box is pictured above) with a mouth-watering assortment of brownies in various sizes (3" x 3", 3" x 1.5", 1.5" x 1.5"). Delicious flavors in the sampler gift box include Pecan, Toffee Crunch, White Chocolate, Mint Chocolate Espresso Nib, Cnnamon Cocoa, Caramel, Chocolate Chip, Raspberry Swirl, Walnut and Cream Cheese plus 4 Blondie Magic Morsels (4 flavors)  and 4 different cookies (Snickerdoodle, Caramel Pecan, Chocolate Chip, and Double Chocolate) ready to give in a festive "Happy Hanukkah" box. 

Fairytale Brownies Chanukah gift boxes are also offered in Gluten-Free Brownie Morsels (choice of 12 or 24 pieces) and Sugar-Free Brownie Morsels (24 pieces). In all, as of press time, there are 31 different Hanukkah gift box options in the brand's collection. All Fairytale Brownies products are certified kosher under the supervision of the Greater Phoenix Vaad Hakashruth in Arizona.

A few more gift ideas from other brands in this category...

Hanukkah Menorah Kitchen Tea Towel

This 16" x 24" white waffle weave tea towel makes a wonderful holiday gift for your host or hostess

Multi-Color Chocolate Hanukkah Coins - Kosher

Kids love chocolate gelt even more in so many colors like this, OU Dairy certified

Whimsical Gifts for All, You Included

Mini Bead Hanukkah Jewelry Making Kit

The charms, beads and more set the stage for getting creative

Heart Dreidel by Michael Aram

A beautiful, nickleplate hand-forged piece from the brand's Heart Collection

Hanukkah Menorah by Artist Yair Emanuel

The modern Tree of Life branch design is offered in 3 sizes

Classic Blue and White Hanukkah Menorah Candles

Chanukah for a Cause menorah candles - Proud to Stand with Israel

Happy Hanukkah Felt Mouse

A delicate, sweet needle-felted handcrafted collectible

LED Light Blue Kurt Adler Hanukkah House

Battery operated, this gingerbread cottage style piece belongs on your table

Gifts for Family and Friends

Ceramic Nail Polish Menorah

Faux nail polish bottles hold the candles on this adorable menorah

Hanukkah Spa Gift Box

This holiday spa in a box includes a succulent along with soap, candle and more 

Happy Llamakah Pop Up Hanukkah Card

Send this 3-D LovePop card to the animal and llama lovers on your mailing list

Hanukkah Flower Bouquet Pop Up Card

Also from LovePop, send this sweet card that won't wilt or die like real flowers

Matching Pajamas for Mom, Dad and Kids

Imagine the family photos you'll be able to take wearing these lookalike PJs

Pet Gifts for Cats and Dogs

These cat and dog gifts are perfect for pet parents to give to your four-legged children. They're surprisingly inexpensive, too, so you'll probably want to buy them all!

Crinkle Fish Interactive Cat Toy Play Set

Your kitty will be mesmerized by these 4 fish that make crackling sounds

Dreidel and Gelt Cat Toys

This catnip fleece set is a really popular Hanukkah gift for cats this year

Hannukah Gelt Plush Dog Toy

A fun find for dogs is this stuffed oversized coin made with metallic fabric

Happy Hanukkah Dog Bone Toy

Include your dog in the festivities with this holiday-themed plush dog toy 

Hanukkah Plush Cookie Dog Pull Rope Toy

A dog pull toy with pretend dreidel cookies attached that's fun for you both

Hoping you find one or more gifts for someone special on your shopping list. Happy Shopping!

FTC Disclosure: MBE participates in Amazon affiliate advertising program and well as other affiliate marketing programs. So when you click on a link and make a purchase, I will earn a small bit of compensation at no extra cost to you. 

Happy Hanukkah to
All Celebrating