Amidst the grueling California wildfires, people’s kindness has been the brightest. Several, including celebrities and the league, have come together to curb the impact the catastrophe has left behind. Charles Barkley, who has friends living in the affected area, wants to be a part of the giving. And let’s just say his consoling words, yet a confused voice to lend help might have just brought him and many others closer to action.

To begin the latest episode of The Steam Room podcast, Chuck had some words for the people. “I just want to give my thoughts to the people of California. Watching that from a distance it just breaks your heart and I just want to say man it’s going to be a long road to recovery. I see a lot of people doing some great things and we all got to band together,” Barkley said.

The 76ers legend added that the first person he had called upon hearing about the fire was Kenny Smith, who lived there. The host, Ernie Johnson, reminded him of Candace Parker who also lives in California. The LA Sparks legend wasn’t able to return in time for the first TNT Tuesday of the season but has kept updating the fans on social media.

As of the 17th the Palisades and Eaton continue to burn, but the wind has slowed down. However, the disaster has already claimed 27 lives so far and damaged over 12,000 structures. Aware of the impact, Chuck quickly expressed his wish to get involved with a charity or organization through which he can provide help to the victims.

“I got to figure out how I want to contribute. I talked to Jennifer Gardner about it, who’s an amazing woman and I said, ‘hey I want you to figure out a good charity I can get involved with in California because man I just want those people to know that I’m thinking about them,’” Barkley revealed. And well, his concern was answered. 

Warner Bros. Discovery, which earned nearly $40.6 billion, had a way! Johnson shared that the producers have provided some measures. One includes people texting “relief” to 707070 to contribute. He also added how one can donate to American Red Cross California wildfires 2025 fund World.

While Chuck is beginning, his fellow Inside the NBA crewmate already seems to have put in the work from his side. 

Charles Barkley isn’t alone in lending help from TNT

Before Chuck, Shaquille O’Neal also spoke on the condition of L.A. The 4x NBA champ also has friends in L.A. But more importantly, one of his family members also lives in California, his stepson Myles. While Myles has moved to safety, O’Neal later took to social media to speak to the fans. “It’s devastating to watch, my heart goes out to everyone.”

Along with that, he also expressed his relief at seeing how people have been helpful and kind to each other amidst this crisis. “I know the people of LA will stand by their comrades and we’ll definitely get through this. I’ve never felt comfortable in times like this, getting on my Instagram, showing you what I’m doing. I rather just do most of the work unseen,” O’Neal said.

Like Barkley, O’Neal must also be doing his part to help the people. His ex-wife Shaunie Henderson, along with her husband Pastor Keion Henderson, have also extended their support to the people. Amidst the devastation, the celebrities rallying support for the affected surely brings hope.