January 29, 2025 | Warren Shoulberg
The devastating fires in the greater Los Angeles area have brought out DIY and other building trade companies trying to help.
Some of the building and home improvement industry’s biggest players, including the twin DIY giants Lowe’s and Home Depot, as well as others are pledging millions to help in the relief and rebuilding of the devastation that has struck the area.
More than 40,000 acres – that’s bigger than twice the size of Manhattan – encompassing thousands of structures have been destroyed, taking an estimated 27 lives so far, with that number expected to climb as firefighters continue to get the fires under control.
Lowe’s has pledged $2 million so far to support relief and recovery efforts, including funds to help in evacuations, shelters, and supplies such as water, masks, and air purifiers. “Our thoughts and prayers are with everyone in harm’s way and with the tireless first responders who are battling the fires around the clock,” said Marvin Ellison, Lowe’s chairman and CEO. “Lowe’s is here to help our resilient neighbors as they continue to face unprecedented destruction.”
Home Depot said its foundation is pledging $1 million for disaster relief efforts. “We’re working with our nonprofit partners to evaluate the immediate needs in impacted areas and get essential relief supplies into the community as quickly as possible,” said Erin Izen, executive director of The Home Depot Foundation.
It said its stores in Southern California are donating water, masks and other essential supplies to nonprofit organizations in the area across 17 distribution sites. Home Depot said its partners in these relief efforts include: Team Rubicon, helping at food banks; the American Red Cross, setting up shelters; Convoy of Hope, providing needed supplies; Operation Blessing, also with supplies and food; ToolBank USA, providing equipment support; and World Central Kitchen, providing meals to first responders and emergency workers.
Image: Home Depot
International Woodworking Fair
Tuesday–Friday
August 25–28, 2026
Georgia World Congress Center
285 Andrew Young International Blvd
Atlanta, GA 30313