Dodgers Commit $100 Million to Newsom’s Wildfire Relief Fund, But Only $7.8 Million Raised So Far—What’s Going On?
In the wake of devastating wildfires in Pacific Palisades and Altadena, California Governor Gavin Newsom introduced the LA Rises initiative in a press event at Dodger Stadium. Positioned against a panoramic backdrop of Los Angeles, Newsom outlined the program designed to foster collaboration between the private sector and philanthropists to aid Southern California’s recovery efforts.
The highlight of the announcement was a $100 million commitment from Mark Walter, chairman and controlling owner of the Los Angeles Dodgers, along with his family foundation and the Dodgers’ foundation. “We should clap for that,” said Dodgers co-owner Magic Johnson, praising Walter’s significant contribution.
However, one year after its launch, the LA Rises initiative has faced challenges in gaining traction within a crowded field of wildfire relief programs. To date, the initiative has secured $20 million, including $7.8 million from Walter’s family foundation, as reported by Newsom’s office. Casey Rogers, founder of Santa Barbara-based Telea Insights, expressed concern over the fundraising progress. “Given this is after such a severe occurrence, and with Los Angeles’ capacity to give, I would have expected more commitments,” he noted.
In support of its pledge, Dodgers President Stan Kasten remarked that while full utilization of the $100 million has not yet occurred, this remains a long-term commitment. A representative from Newsom’s office clarified that Walter’s funding pledge does not have a specific timeline.
“We prefer to identify impactful opportunities for investment as they arise,” explained Dee Dee Myers, director of Newsom’s office of business and economic development. The initiative has allocated funding for various projects, including $5 million in grants for small businesses and nonprofits, as well as $2.8 million for technical education programs at Pasadena City College aimed at rebuilding local communities.
Additionally, LA Rises has sponsored programs such as day camps and mental health interventions for children affected by the fires, expedited architectural planning for survivors desirous of rebuilding, and support for Habitat for Humanity in constructing new homes.
Despite the modest financial progress, Myers emphasized the administration’s gratitude for any philanthropic support for rebuilding efforts. The competition for donor dollars is intense; a report from the Milken Institute indicated that private contributions for wildfire relief approached nearly $1 billion last year.
Kasten acknowledged the significant funds already directed to relief programs but hinted at revising the approach of LA Rises to allocate support more effectively. He indicated ongoing discussions regarding potential adjustments, including the possibility of redirecting Walter’s remaining commitment to organizations outside of LA Rises, though he reaffirmed their dedication to assisting programs that require help.
“There are talks ongoing about a variety of programs and ways of funding,” Kasten stated. “We’ve done a lot of it already, and we can do a lot more.”
