A Year-End Donation Guide: Ways to Give Back Locally
As the year comes to a close, December offers a meaningful opportunity to reflect, express gratitude, and give back to the communities we love. Supporting local organizations — whether through donations, volunteering, or spreading awareness — helps strengthen the fabric of Los Angeles and the Westside.
Below are impactful charities and organizations to consider supporting this season.
Support Families & Food Insecurity
Food banks are especially busy during the holidays, helping families meet basic needs during an expensive and stressful time of year. We all know groceries are more expensive than ever and donating to one of these organizations could mean easing that burden for vulnerable families in our city.
Westside Food Bank – Serving Santa Monica, Malibu, Pacific Palisades, and surrounding areas by providing food to those in need.
Los Angeles Regional Food Bank – One of the largest food banks in the country, supporting hundreds of partner agencies across LA County.
Big Sunday – A Los Angeles–based nonprofit that supports families, students, and communities through food drives, backpack programs, and holiday giving initiatives.
Fire & Disaster Relief Efforts
For communities like Malibu, Topanga, and canyon neighborhoods, disaster preparedness and recovery are deeply personal causes.
Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation – Supports LAFD with equipment, training, and resources that benefit the entire city.
California Fire Foundation – Provides direct support to firefighters, first responders, and families affected by fires.
Youth & Education Programs
Supporting youth-focused organizations helps provide access to education, mentorship, and enrichment opportunities.
Para Los Niños – Supports children and families through education, workforce services, and early childhood programs.
Step Up Tutoring – Provides free, high-impact tutoring to students across Los Angeles.
LA’s BEST – Offers after-school enrichment programs for elementary students throughout LAUSD.
Housing & Homelessness Services
December is a critical time to support organizations working to provide housing stability and essential services.
The People Concern – Provides housing, mental health services, and case management to unhoused individuals across LA.
PATH (People Assisting the Homeless) – Works to end homelessness through housing, employment, and supportive services.
St. Joseph Center – A Westside-based organization offering housing support, food programs, and health services.
Environmental & Coastal Organizations
For those passionate about protecting the natural beauty of the coast and local open spaces.
Heal the Bay – Focused on keeping LA’s coastline clean, safe, and healthy.
Surfrider Foundation – Los Angeles Chapter – Protects beaches, ocean water quality, and coastal access.
TreePeople – Works to grow urban forests and improve water sustainability throughout Southern California.
Ways to Give Beyond Donations
Giving back doesn’t always mean writing a check. Other meaningful ways to support include:
Volunteering your time at food drives or community events
Donating gently used clothing, blankets, or household items
Supporting fundraisers hosted by local schools or nonprofits
Sharing donation links and causes with friends and family
As we close out the year, supporting local organizations is one of the most impactful ways to invest in the community we call home. Even small contributions can make a lasting difference.