Hilton and American Express Provide 20,000 Rooms for L.A. Wildfire Evacuees

More than a week after record-breaking Santa Ana winds sparked wildfires across Los Angeles — including the Palisades Fire, the Sunset Fire, and the Eaton Fire — more than 88,000 people remain under evacuation orders. There is no word on when they may be able to return home. Hotels across Southern California have opened their doors, offering free or discounted stays to evacuees.

Hilton Hotels & Resorts and American Express just announced they will provide 20,000 rooms across the greater Los Angeles area for people who have been affected by the wildfires. If you are in need of accommodations, complete an application online with 211 LA. 

Since the start of the fires, more than 40,000 acres have burned, 12,300 structures lost, and at least 24 people have died — the wildfires are now considered to be among the most destructive in California’s history. The volunteer response has been immense, but accommodations remain a top concern, especially in Los Angeles, where a housing shortage has made it difficult (and expensive) to find a place to live even under normal circumstances.

“All natural disasters take a toll on our people and communities, and this one weighs particularly heavy given our long history in California,” said Christopher Nassetta, Hilton president and CEO, in a press release sent to Travel + Leisure. “In times like these, our founder’s belief that hospitality can be a force for good carries even greater meaning and makes our responsibility to those we serve even more urgent.”

Hilton, American Express, and the non-profit organization 211 LA have partnered up to provide free housing for those who have been affected by fires. Airbnb is also partnering with 211LA to offer free housing; the vacation rental company is also combatting exploitative pricing by imposing restrictions on how much hosts can raise prices in Southern California right now.

If you are already staying at a hotel, be sure to keep your receipts — your insurance company may be able to reimburse you, depending on the terms of your coverage. If you are still having trouble finding housing, consider reaching out to the Federal Emergency Management Agency or the Los Angeles Housing Department for resources or assistance. And more relief should soon be on the way — Governor Gavin Newsom recently issued an executive order to expedite temporary housing for wildfire evacuees, streamline the construction of accessory dwelling units, and extend the prohibition of price gouging.

If you’re a points and miles aficionado and want to help, you can donate your points to organizations like the American Red Cross and the Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation through Pointworthy.