In the aftermath of the devastating wildfires that swept across Los Angeles—consuming homes, landscapes, and memories—Children Pay Children is calling on young writers from the U.S. and around the world to raise their voices. We believe that the reflections, emotions, and ideas of children and teens are crucial in shaping how we understand and heal from these events.

The recent fires have not only destroyed properties but have also left an indelible mark on countless families. As homes were reduced to ashes and communities displaced, a collective grief spread across neighborhoods. Many young people witnessed firsthand the loss of their homes or saw the devastation in news reports. Some felt the fear of friends and loved ones in the path of destruction, while others empathized from afar, imagining the chaos and loss.

Why We Need Your Voice

Children Pay Children knows that young people have a unique perspective—one filled with honesty, compassion, and hope. Your words can inspire change, foster empathy, and remind the world of the resilience and humanity present even in the darkest times.

We invite you to contribute your stories, articles, or poems exploring topics like:

  • Personal experiences with wildfires or other natural disasters.
  • Reflections on loss, recovery, and rebuilding.
  • Messages of hope and solidarity for affected families.
  • Creative solutions or ideas to prevent future catastrophes.
  • Imagining a future where nature and humanity thrive together.

Submission Guidelines

  1. Who Can Participate: Writers aged 8 to 18 from anywhere in the world.
  2. Formats Accepted: Articles, short stories, poems, or essays.
  3. Length: No limit.
  4. Deadline: [Insert Deadline Date]
  5. How to Submit: Send your work to submission@childrenpaychildren.com with the subject line “Wildfire Story Submission.”

Selected Contributions

Selected stories will be featured on our website, and outstanding contributions may even be published in a special anthology book.Chosen submissions will be published in our special anthology, Voices from the Ashes, which will be distributed to schools, libraries, and communities around the world. Contributors will also have the opportunity to share their stories during a virtual storytelling event hosted by Children Pay Children.

The Power of Your Story

Your voice matters. By sharing your thoughts and feelings, you help create a conversation about healing, environmental awareness, and the strength found in community. Together, we can inspire understanding and action for a better, safer future.

Thank you for lending your voice to this important project. We look forward to reading your stories and hearing your perspectives.

Contact Us

For questions or more information, please reach out to us at info@childrenpaychildren.com.

Let’s amplify the voices of youth and show the world that even in the face of tragedy, hope burns brighter than any flame.

The following is a list of contact information for those who are in/will be needing support for this devastating event.

Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)

  • Services: Offers disaster assistance, including financial aid for temporary housing and home repairs.
  • Contact Information:

2. American Red Cross

  • Services: Provides emergency shelter, food, and support services.
  • Contact Information:
    • Website: redcross.org
    • Phone: 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767)
    • Local Assistance: redcross.org/kcalCBS News

3. Los Angeles County Fire Department

  • Services: Emergency response and information on fire safety.
  • Contact Information:
    • Website: fire.lacounty.gov
    • Phone: 911 for emergencies; for non-emergencies, refer to the website for local station contacts.

4. 211 LA County

  • Services: Connects residents with health and human services, including disaster relief resources.
  • Contact Information:
    • Website: 211la.org
    • Phone: Dial 2-1-1 or 800-339-6993 (available 24/7) 211 LA

5. California Department of Social Services – Disaster Help Center

6. Los Angeles Regional Food Bank

  • Services: Provides food assistance to those in need.
  • Contact Information:
    • Website: lafoodbank.org
    • Phone: 323-234-3030
    • Find Food Near You: Food Distribution Locator

7. Pasadena Humane Society

  • Services: Assists with pet evacuation, shelter, and care during disasters.
  • Contact Information:

8. Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health

  • Services: Provides mental health support and counseling for disaster survivors.
  • Contact Information:
    • Website: dmh.lacounty.gov
    • Phone: 1-800-854-7771

9. Salvation Army – Southern California Division

  • Services: Offers emergency assistance, including shelter and food services.
  • Contact Information:

10. United Way of Greater Los Angeles

  • Services: Provides support for long-term recovery and rebuilding efforts.
  • Contact Information:

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