As wildfires continue to impact the Los Angeles area, Disney VoluntEARS have stepped up to bring relief to displaced children and families by assembling hundreds of Disney-themed comfort kits for those staying in American Red Cross shelters. This effort is part of Disney’s ongoing commitment to supporting communities in times of crisis.
Bringing Disney Magic to Those in Need
Disney VoluntEARS packed each comfort kit with coloring and activity books, plush toys, blankets, and other comforting items—all provided by the Disney Experiences team. To create a welcoming environment for children in shelters, VoluntEARS also donated books, games, chairs, and other essentials to the Pasadena shelter.
“If there’s one company that can bring a smile to somebody’s face when they’re going through their most difficult time, it’s Disney,” said Josh D’Amaro, Chairman, Disney Experiences. “You look at operations like this, where Cast Members are coming together—everyone wants to reach out and help. And that’s what we’re here to do.”
In addition to providing comfort kits, Disney is collaborating with the American Red Cross to explore additional ways to bring joy to children and families in shelters, including potential Disney movie screenings.

Disney’s Commitment to Disaster Relief
The American Red Cross has expressed deep gratitude for Disney’s continued support.
“I’m deeply grateful for Disney’s unwavering support of our mission and their generous commitment to help those in need,” said Cliff Holtz, President and CEO of the American Red Cross. “Just last week, I was able to connect with Bob Iger when he visited an American Red Cross shelter in Pasadena. I can’t thank the Disney team enough for standing with us to bring hope and comfort in the wake of these devastating wildfires.”
With thousands of residents displaced—including Disney Cast Members, employees, and their families—the Disney VoluntEARS program has mobilized to provide hands-on relief efforts.
“The Disney VoluntEARS came together at a moment’s notice to help us compile these comfort kits and care packages,” said Karen Kawanami, Manager, Corporate Social Responsibility, Disney Experiences. “They care so much about the communities and the nonprofits that Disney works with.”
With thousands of residents displaced…the Disney VoluntEARS program has mobilized to provide hands-on relief efforts.
A Company-Wide Effort to Give Back
For Disney VoluntEARS, this initiative is more than just an act of charity—it’s a deeply personal commitment. Employees from across The Walt Disney Company worked together to gather supplies, demonstrating Disney’s strong culture of volunteerism and community support.
“This is really part of the DNA of our company,” said John Breckow, Director, Corporate Social Responsibility, Disney Experiences. “Our employee base has such a strong sense of community, of giving back. Frankly, that’s why I work here.”
Describing the effort as “an all-hands-on-deck moment for Disney,” Breckow emphasized that the initiative was a company-wide effort, with supplies coming from multiple Disney divisions.
“We have VoluntEARS from everywhere, but we’ve also got items from everywhere. We have Mickey Krispie treats from Disneyland and coloring books from Disney Consumer Products,” he added.
D’Amaro highlighted the emotional impact of Disney’s contributions, saying:
“For kids who have gone through a situation like this—where maybe they’ve lost their home and they find themselves in a shelter—to open a Disney bag, to see a Disney plush inside, and to be able to read a Disney book—these are things that warm people’s hearts.”
Investing in the Community
Beyond immediate relief efforts, Disney has pledged $15 million toward response and rebuilding efforts in the affected areas. This funding will support organizations like the American Red Cross, which Disney has partnered with for decades.
In addition:
- Disney opened its wardrobe warehouse to provide clothing and supplies for employees, production crews, and their families who lost their homes.
- ABC’s Good Morning America announced that more than $6 million was raised through the ABC News “SoCal Strong” initiative.
- Disney networks—including ABC, Freeform, FX, Nat Geo, and Hulu—are airing wildfire relief PSAs to encourage donations to the American Red Cross.


A Lasting Commitment to Helping Others
“We are headquartered here; this is our home,” said Breckow. “When you live in Los Angeles, you take care of Los Angeles. I’m so proud to see how we at Disney rally in a moment like this.”
Through its VoluntEARS program, financial contributions, and ongoing partnerships, Disney remains committed to supporting communities in need—bringing hope, comfort, and a little Disney magic to those facing hardship.

Berry Place 28
Vlogger, Podcast Host, Ice Cream Aficionado
A life long thrill seeker, Berry Place 28 has always been captivated by entertainment and theme parks. BP28 was a former Cast Member for Disney, many years ago, who now enjoys vlogging at Disneyland and covering the history, rides and attractions that Walt Disney created. In addition, he enjoys covering Knott’s Berry Farm, SeaWorld, and other theme parks and local attractions. Berry Place 28 was named after the “Berry Place” market that Walter and Cordelia Knott opened in 1928 and after Mickey Mouse which was created in 1928.