Here are the top-rated charities for assisting with wildfire relief efforts.

• Here is a list of highly rated nonprofits currently providing relief and recovery assistance to victims of the Los Angeles wildfires.
• These groups have been vetted by nonprofit evaluator Charity Navigator.

At least five people have been killed, over 100,000 residents have been evacuated, and nearly 2,000 homes and businesses have been destroyed due to massive wildfires in the Los Angeles area of Southern California as of Thursday morning.

Numerous individuals across the country and globally are eager to contribute, whether through financial donations or emergency aid supplies. Nevertheless, there are already fraudulent fundraising schemes exploiting the crisis.

In order to ensure that your funds reach the intended recipients, Charity Navigator has created a list of top-rated nonprofits operating in the Pacific Palisades and surrounding areas, providing aid to those affected by relief and recovery efforts, including support for first responders.

Charitable giving can provide tax benefits, including the opportunity to gift crypto. However, older adults who have lost $100,000 to fraud has tripled, according to the FTC.

"Michael Thatcher, CEO of Charity Navigator, stated that the organizations present have been thoroughly evaluated and are exceptional."

The organization recognized several groups for their prompt assistance to wildfire victims and affected communities.

How to avoid wildfire-related scams

As with high-pressure donations, there will be an increase in fraudulent behavior, said Thatcher, "and what we encourage people to do is be proactive rather than reactive to a solicitation."

Instead of clicking on a link in a text, email, or social media post, it is recommended to go directly to a charity's website or use a site such as Charity Navigator, BBB Wise Giving Alliance, or CharityWatch to find a relief effort.

"Both safety and legitimacy are important factors," he stated. "Ultimately, our goal is to positively impact those affected by the fire."

The BBB Wise Giving Alliance provides guidance on donating to the California wildfire relief efforts.

To ensure the safety of their donations, it is advised that donors verify a charity's accreditation and exercise caution when donating on crowdfunding platforms, such as examining the screening process for posts and the fees associated with transactions.

Please provide a clear and specific description of the programs your support will assist, rather than relying on vague relief appeals.