A Letter from WhyHunger in Response to the California Wildfires
To our California Community and Beyond,
Our hearts are with everyone affected by the devastating wildfires raging across California, including several of our staff and Board members. The loss, displacement, and fear experienced by so many serve as a stark reminder of our shared vulnerability to the growing impacts of climate change.
In her essay, Only Indigenous Ways Prevent Wildfires, Rowen White gives us beautiful and urgent wisdom that centers us and asks the question:
“How do we move with the land so the land doesn’t move us?”
Indigenous peoples have long practiced ecological stewardship that reduces the risk of such catastrophic events. Their wisdom teaches us that addressing wildfires is not just about fighting flames—it’s about restoring balance and building a relationship with the Earth based on care, humility, and respect.
In moments like these, we are called to stand together as a community, offering support to those in need and advocating for systemic change to address the root causes of this climate crisis; a crisis that has intensified these natural disasters, disrupting ecosystems, livelihoods, and entire communities. At WhyHunger, we understand the interconnection between environmental justice, food security and resilience. We stand in solidarity with the communities on the frontlines and are committed to amplifying Indigenous voices and solutions as we work toward a more just and sustainable future.
For those impacted by the fires or seeking ways to help, here are some resources to support you:
Comprehensive Fire Resources Spreadsheet
Mutual Aid Los Angeles Network (MALAN)
Los Angeles Regional Food Bank
Ways to Help People Affected by California Wildfires
Watch Duty – App for Real-Time Fire Updates
Temporary Housing Support (via 211A x AirBnB)
Let us draw strength from one another during these challenging times and renew our commitment to building a future rooted in justice, sustainability, and care for the Earth. Together, we can honor the wisdom of Indigenous communities and work toward solutions that protect both people and planet.
With heartfelt solidarity,
The WhyHunger Team
About WhyHunger
Founded in 1975 by the late Harry Chapin and radio DJ Bill Ayres, WhyHunger funds and supports community solutions to protect the human right to food. In nearly five decades of innovation and evolution, our programs and our grassroots partners in 24 countries have expanded agricultural practices that are better for the planet, helped communities address the root causes of hunger, and ensured access to nutritious food for millions of people. As a grassroots support organization, we stand behind the leadership of the people most impacted by hunger and injustice. We prioritize providing resources to support the rights of communities who have been historically excluded from defining and controlling their food systems. We advocate for workers’ rights and champion agroecological food production that unites science and sustainability with Indigenous knowledge and wisdom. Together we can build socially and economically just food systems that nourish all people and the environment. Learn more at whyhunger.org and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, TikTok and Instagram.
