FireAid, the exceptional benefit concert held in January, successfully raised an impressive $100 million dedicated to supporting wildfire relief efforts in Los Angeles. On Saturday, July 26, the organizing team behind the dual performances at L.A.’s Intuit Dome and Kia Forum issued a statement addressing the surge of misinformation circulating online concerning the distribution of these crucial funds. It’s essential for the community to understand the impact of this event and how the funds are being allocated to aid recovery from devastating wildfires.
The remarkable lineup of performers at FireAid — which was streamed live and attracted over 50 million viewers worldwide — featured renowned artists including Green Day alongside Billie Eilish, Jelly Roll, Katy Perry, Lady Gaga, Olivia Rodrigo, Peso Pluma, Stevie Wonder, Lil Baby, Tate McRae, Sting, Alanis Morissette, Anderson .Paak with Dr. Dre and Sheila E, Dawes, John Mayer, a special Nirvana reunion, Joni Mitchell, a reunited No Doubt, P!nk, and the Red Hot Chili Peppers, among many others. Funds for this noble cause were generated through ticket sales, merchandise purchases, sponsorships, and generous public and private donations.
In February, FireAid announced its initial funds disbursement amounting to approximately $50 million, followed by a second round of grants worth $25 million in June. It is anticipated that the remaining $25 million will be allocated by the end of 2025, ensuring that the financial support continues to reach those in desperate need as they recover from the wildfires that impacted Los Angeles.
In a statement released on Saturday morning, the organizers expressed concern over the increasing spread of misinformation regarding how FireAid funds are being distributed. They emphasized the importance of transparency for Angelenos and the thousands of generous donors who contributed to the cause, ensuring that everyone understands how their contributions are being utilized to support recovery efforts.
According to FireAid, the Los Angeles Times has contacted over 100 organizations that have received funding to assess how the grants were utilized. The publication noted that it was determined that FireAid served as a vital lifeline during the most challenging periods of the disaster and has continued to play a significant role in ongoing recovery efforts.
The substantial $100 million raised is making a significant difference for survivors of the L.A. wildfires, according to FireAid. The organization has partnered with local nonprofits that are adept at directly reaching individuals and families in need of essential resources such as food stability, housing, and other forms of support to help them rebuild their lives after the devastation caused by the wildfires.
“Every recipient of the funds is mandated to provide a report on how the funds are being used, ensuring complete transparency and measurable impact,” the statement conveyed. “The results will be audited by KPMG, FireAid’s auditing firm, with the finalized reports expected by December 2025.” This commitment to accountability is crucial for maintaining trust among donors and the community.
For those interested in following the progress of the funding efforts, the FireAid website lists the partners who have received grants, which can be accessed at fireaidla.org/grants. The site will consistently update and publish documentation detailing how the funds are being utilized to assist individuals affected by the wildfires in the L.A. region, promoting transparency and ongoing community engagement.
“Although there is still substantial work ahead, the funds raised through FireAid are providing critical assistance to as many individuals and families as possible,” stated the note released on Saturday. This ongoing support is vital for the community’s recovery and rebuilding efforts.
For the complete statement, please see below.
