A star-studded fundraiser titled “Together for LA” took place at the iconic Hotel Bel-Air, drawing attention to the families and children devastated by the recent Los Angeles wildfires. Hosted by author Jay Shetty and real estate mogul Anita Verma-Lallian, the event raised an impressive $700,000 in just a short time. The funds will be donated to Baby2Baby, a non-profit organization that has already provided over 6 million emergency supplies to families affected by the fires.
Verma-Lallian, who heads Arizona Land Consulting and Camelback Productions, became widely known when she moved into the former home of Matthew Perry. Despite her own house being spared, she expressed her concern for those in her neighborhood who had lost everything in the fire. At the event, she shared touching stories from fire survivors and their resilience, with neighbors helping each other to protect homes.
The fundraiser attracted a range of high-profile guests, including actors Kumail Nanjiani, designer Kelly Wearstler, author Jamie Kern Lima, and comedian Lilly Singh. Items for silent auctions included exclusive experiences, such as Elton John Academy Awards party tickets, and rare memorabilia like a guitar signed by all of the Beatles. A raffle for a $38,000 3-carat diamond ring also took place.
The evening concluded with a group meditation led by Jay Shetty, focusing on service and community healing in the wake of such tragedy. “In times of uncertainty, we seek stability, but the spiritual path is about service and uplifting others,” Shetty shared with the attendees. The event’s mission was reinforced by visuals and messages from Baby2Baby, along with personal videos from wildfire survivors, further emphasizing the impact of the ongoing relief efforts.