In the aftermath of the devastating wildfires that tore through Los Angeles, Michele Ganeless, the newly appointed CEO of Comic Relief US, recognized an opportunity to contribute to relief efforts from her base in New York. Observing the swift response from Hollywood, where figures like Jimmy Kimmel transformed his show’s set into a hub for donations, and events like benefit performances were being held at The Largo, Ganeless was inspired to organize a similar initiative in New York, titled “Stand-Up for LA.”
This poignant comedy event took place on March 3 at The Town Hall in Manhattan and featured renowned comedians such as Jon Stewart, John Oliver, Ramy Youssef, and Hannah Berner. “The goal was to help the New York comedy community give back,” Ganeless explained, highlighting the deep-rooted connections between the entertainment scenes of New York and Los Angeles.
In the six weeks following the wildfires—recognized as the most destructive in Los Angeles’ history—a remarkable wave of support sprung up, driven by the unique relationship between these two cultural epicenters. FireAid played a significant part, accumulating approximately $100 million through performances by numerous popular musicians. In New York, the entertainment and hospitality industries were particularly active, organizing various fundraisers motivated by professional ties with their West Coast counterparts.
Key nonprofit partners—such as actress Taraji P. Henson’s foundation addressing mental health issues in marginalized communities, Covenant House supporting homeless youth, and The Boys & Girls Club—were instrumental in identifying the most pressing needs. Comedy figure Hannah Berner, a native New Yorker, hailed the fundraising as a joyous opportunity to support families, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to give back.
Adding to the efforts, TV personality Andy Cohen launched a compelling incentive for fans: a chance to attend a New York taping of “Watch What Happens Live” with a $10 donation, with proceeds benefiting the SoCal Fire Fund. Cohen acknowledged the intrinsic solidarity between the two cities, noting that it is an ingrained response to support each other in times of crisis.
Community involvement extended beyond celebrities. In Brooklyn, over 170 people attended a benefit concert organized by Heather de Armas and Ava Tunnicliffe, with proceeds directed to Mutual Aid LA. The personal connections many shared with LA intensified the sense of urgency and empathy, as demonstrated by alt-pop singer B.Miles, who still has family residing in the impacted area.
Efforts continued with Carlos Quirarte, co-founder of Ray’s Bar, spearheading a clothing drive that exceeded expectations. Locals inundated the collection sites with donations, supported by movers from Piece of Cake who delivered 300 boxes for shipment. Moreover, Supreme collaborator Mark Gonzales contributed streetwear merchandise to aid the cause.
Community members also participated in a broader seven-hour fundraiser, which united runners, cooks, artists, musicians, and yoga enthusiasts in an impressive demonstration of collective action. Orchestrated by Gina Bruno and Luke Haverty, the event far surpassed a simple bake sale, evolving into a large-scale charitable initiative. Activities included a 5K run, live music, floral workshops, and yoga sessions, all culminating in $52,000 raised for the California Community Foundation and World Central Kitchen.
Haverty expressed pride in providing multiple opportunities for individuals to contribute their unique talents toward the greater good, emphasizing that the provision of a collaborative platform was vital in connecting efforts across the nation.
Reflecting on the community’s efforts, Bruno expressed a profound sense of fulfillment, driven by the knowledge and ability to make a meaningful difference.
