Tuesday, January 14, 2025 / by Robert Ortega
Wildfire Resources for the Los Angeles Community: Your Guide to Support and Recovery
Wildfire Resources for the Los Angeles Community: Your Guide to Support and Recovery
As wildfires continue to impact the Los Angeles area, our hearts go out to everyone affected. This is a challenging time, but together, as a resilient community, we can rebuild and support one another. Below, I’ve compiled a list of essential resources for immediate assistance, staying informed, and opportunities to give back.
Visit my dedicated Wildfire Resources page - FindMyHome.com for full access to links and updates.
How to Get Help
FEMA Assistance:
- Online: DisasterAssistance - https://www.disasterassistance.gov
- FEMA App: Available for mobile devices
- Call: 1-800-621-3362 (4 a.m. to 10 p.m. PST, multilingual help available)
Housing Assistance:
- 211LA Housing Services - https://www.211la.org: Partnered with https://www.Airbnb.org for free stays for displaced individuals and families.
Emergency Shelters:
- Visit CalOES Shelters - https://www.caloes.ca.gov for a list of open shelters.
- American Red Cross: https://www.redcross.org or 1-800-RED-CROSS.
Food Assistance:
- LA Regional Food Bank - https://www.lafoodbank.org or call 323-234-3030.
Mental Health Support:
- Call or text 988 or visit 988 Lifeline Chat - https://www.988lifeline.org.
- LA County Department of Mental Health: 1-800-854-7771 or text “LA” to 741741.
Animal and Pet Support:
- LA Animal Services: https://www.laanimalservices.com or call 888-452-7381.
- RedRover Relief Program: https://www.redrover.org
Insurance Moratorium: What You Need to Know
A mandatory one-year moratorium protects homeowners in wildfire-impacted areas from insurance non-renewals and cancellations.
Who’s Covered?
Homeowners in ZIP Codes within or adjoining the Palisades and Eaton fire areas. Protection applies even if your home didn’t sustain direct damage, as per the Governor’s January 7 emergency declaration.
Key Resources
- Check your ZIP code is included - https://www.insurance.ca.gov
- Updates from - https://www.uphelp.org
- For more details on workshops and legal support, explore C.A.R. Resources - https://www.car.org/difference/realtorscare/cadisasterresources
Staying Informed
- Sign up for evacuation alerts - https://www.ready.lacounty.gov.
- Real-time fire updates - https://www.fire.ca.gov.
- Air quality monitoring - http://www.aqmd.gov.
How to Give Back
- Donation through Philanthropy California - https://www.philanthropyca.org.
- Volunteer withCalifornia Volunteers - https://www.californiavolunteers.ca.gov.
- Drop-off supplies (water, blankets, toiletries, etc.) at: 13470 Washington Blvd, Marina Del Rey, CA 90292, from January 11–19, 9 AM–4 PM.
Financial Assistance and Property Relief
Tax Relief
File for property reassessment if your home sustained damage: https://www.assessor.lacounty.gov/tax-relief/disaster-relief
Insurance Claims
Detailed guidance available through the California Department of Insurance - https://www.insurance.ca.gov.
Stay Safe from Wildfire Smoke
Limit outdoor activities and use N95 masks when necessary.
Replace indoor air filters and keep your home sealed from outdoor air.
Real Estate Insights and Opportunities
California’s price-gouging laws remain in effect, ensuring fair market practices during recovery. For sellers, this could be an opportune moment to leverage the market’s needs. Buyers might find unique opportunities as some homeowners consider relocating.
If you’re exploring these possibilities, I can guide you through the process responsibly and effectively.
Reach Out for Assistance
If you or someone you know needs support or has questions about housing or recovery resources, I’m here to help. Together, we can navigate these challenges and rebuild our community stronger than before.
For full details, visit my Wildfire Resources page - FindMyHome.com.
Robert Ortega, Agent & Associates
(818) 7-BE-HOME or (818) 723-4664
Los Angeles (310) 890-3434