Support Resources for Los Angeles Wildfire Victims

If your home was affected by the recent wildfires in Los Angeles, several government and non-government agencies, along with financial support programs, offer assistance.

Government Agencies

1. Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)

  • Assistance: Provides financial aid for temporary housing, home repairs, and other disaster-related expenses.

  • How to Apply: Visit https://www.fema.gov or call 1-800-621-3362.

  • Note: Los Angeles wildfire survivors are eligible to apply for federal assistance as announced by Governor Gavin Newsom.

2. California Department of Insurance (CDI)

  • Assistance: Offers guidance on filing insurance claims and helps resolve disputes with insurers.

  • Contact: Call the Consumer Hotline at 1-800-927-4357 or visit https://www.insurance.ca.gov

3. Los Angeles County Department of Public Social Services

  • Assistance: Provides disaster assistance through programs like General Relief, CalWORKs, CalFresh, and Medi-Cal.

  • More Info: Visit https://recovery.lacounty.gov

4. California Disaster Relief Loan Program

  • Assistance: Low-interest loans for homeowners, renters, and businesses to help with the cost of repairs or recovery.

  • How to Apply: Contact the California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services for application details or visit https://disasterloan.sba.gov

  • Note: This program provides financial help to recover personal property and essential repairs.

5. Small Business Administration (SBA) Disaster Loans

Eligibility: Loans cover property damage, home repairs, and lost income due to the wildfire.

Non-Government Organizations

1. United Policyholders

  • Assistance: A non-profit offering free resources to help homeowners navigate the insurance claims process post-disaster.

  • Resources: Guides, webinars, and sample letters are available on their website.

  • Website: https://www.uphelp.org

2. Legal Aid Foundation of Los Angeles (LAFLA)

  • Assistance: Provides legal help, including assistance with insurance claims and disputes.

  • Programs: The Fuerza Fund offers emergency cash assistance for those impacted by wildfires.

  • Website: https://www.lafla.org

3. American Red Cross Los Angeles Region

  • Assistance: Provides disaster relief services, including shelter, food, and emotional support.

  • More Info: Visit https://www.redcross.org/local/california/los-angeles.html

4. United Way of Greater Los Angeles

5. California Wildfire Relief Fund

  • Assistance: Offers financial grants for survivors, focusing on urgent needs, rebuilding, and mental health support.

  • How to Apply: Visit https://wildfirerelief.calfund.org 

Additional Support

1. Disaster Recovery Centers (DRCs)

  • Services: Assist with replacing vital records, provide disaster relief information, and offer referrals for mental health counseling.

  • Info: The City and County are working with the state and FEMA to establish DRCs for wildfire survivors.

  • More Info: Visit https://emergency.lacity.gov 

2. 211 LA

  • Assistance: Connects residents with various services, including emergency shelter and food assistance.

  • Contact: Dial 2-1-1 or visit https://www.211la.org