World Central Kitchen is on the ground in Orange County, California as the Norte Fire rages—0% contained and spreading fast across more than 400 acres, fueled by intense Santa Ana winds. Roughly 13,000 residents are under mandatory evacuation orders after the fire grew rapidly Friday afternoon, forcing thousands from their homes. WCK and our local partners are working to serve meals to impacted communities.

WCK has a long history of responding to wildfires in California, including the 2025 blazes that devastated entire neighborhoods in Southern California. From hot meals to farmer’s markets and commissary kitchen spaces, we have deep connections in the region that allow us to respond with urgency and ensure meals reach anyone in need.

This wildfire comes at a time of intense climate and natural disasters across North America and the globe. Our teams just concluded work on the ground in Baja California, Mexico after Hurricane Rachel left a wake of destruction last weekend. Our teams also recently wound down our response in Jalisco in the wake of Hurricane Simon. In the southeastern US, we are still supporting families impacted by Hurricane Isaias.

As climate disasters become increasingly intense and common, WCK has built robust networks to support communities impacted by storms. 

This remains a quickly evolving situation. You can sign up to our newsletter to receive more information and follow us on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook for real time updates.

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