Instacart has introduced the 'Classroom Carts' initiative to support Los Angeles County schools affected by recent wildfires. The program, accessible through the Instacart App, allows users across the United States to donate essential supplies directly to 28 public and charter schools in Altadena, Pacific Palisades, and Pasadena. This effort aims to assist nearly 15,000 students as they recover from one of California's most significant natural disasters.
The initiative is part of Instacart's Community Carts tool and is launched with a $1 million donation from Instacart's Board of Directors. The funds are directed towards the Greater Los Angeles Education Foundation, Pasadena Education Foundation, and LAUSD Foundation. Additional contributions have been made by company advisors and external firms such as Cooley and Wachtell, Lipton, Rosen & Katz.
Fidji Simo, CEO and Board Chair of Instacart, emphasized the importance of this initiative: "With Classroom Carts, we’re giving people across the country a simple and meaningful way to step in and directly contribute the items schools have said they need."
California State Superintendent Tony Thurmond acknowledged the partnership with Instacart: “I’m grateful for generous partners like Instacart as we stand together to support our students, families, and educators as they recover and rebuild.”
The wildfires caused extensive damage to educational facilities in Southern California. Classroom Carts enables anyone nationwide to provide assistance by selecting needed items for specific schools via the Instacart App or website. Delivery fees are waived for these donations.
Dr. Debra Duardo from the Los Angeles County Office of Education noted that "Classroom Carts will help provide critical support by helping schools restock the supplies they need."
Elizabeth Blanco from Pasadena Unified School District expressed gratitude for Instacart’s involvement: “This effort ensures that schools across our district have access to essential supplies.”
Kerry Franco of the Greater Los Angeles Education Foundation highlighted community resilience: “The outpouring of support we’ve seen is a testament to the strength of our communities.”
Sara Mooney from LAUSD Education Foundation commented on collaboration: “This effort is a powerful example of what we can accomplish when we come together.”
Erik Berg from Pasadena Educational Foundation appreciated Instacart’s role: “By making it easy for people to donate items directly to schools in need...”
Principals from affected schools also voiced their appreciation for this initiative. Dr. Pam Magee from Palisades Charter High School emphasized continuity in education while Ian McFeat from Aveson School praised community support. Bonnie Brimecombe from Odyssey South Charter School highlighted recovery efforts enabled by this collaboration.
Instacart remains committed to leveraging its technology for community support through initiatives like Classroom Carts.