Wildfires are an increasingly common and devastating challenge, particularly for communities in wildfire-prone regions like California. The destruction they bring?—?displacing families, destroying homes, and endangering lives?—?leaves behind both immediate and long-term needs that can feel overwhelming for those impacted. In times like these, knowing where to turn for assistance is vital. Whether it’s finding shelter, accessing financial support, or getting help with recovery and rebuilding, having access to the right resources can make all the difference.

Our goal is to empower those affected by wildfires with actionable information while inspiring others to support their communities in meaningful ways. Together, we can rise to meet these challenges and ensure no one faces this difficult time alone.

Emergency Shelters and Evacuation Centers

 

Evacuation centers offer temporary shelter, meals, and other critical resources for those displaced by wildfires.

• Westwood Recreation Center
  1350 S Sepulveda Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90025
• Pasadena Civic Auditorium
  300 E Green St, Pasadena, CA 91101
• El Camino Real Charter High School 
  5440 Valley Circle Blvd, Woodland Hills, CA 91367
• Ritchie Valens Recreation Center
  10736 Laurel Canyon Blvd, Pacoima, CA 91331
• Sepulveda Recreation Center
  8825 Kester Avenue, Panorama City, CA 91402
• American Red Cross: Find the nearest shelter through the Red Cross Shelter Locator: https://www.redcross.org/get-help/disaster-relief-and-recovery-services/find-an-open-shelter.html
• Los Angeles County Emergency Operations Center: Offers updated locations of evacuation shelters. 
  Visit: https://ceo.lacounty.gov/emergency-management/

Financial Assistance and Disaster Relief

For families needing financial support, several organizations provide grants, loans, and immediate monetary aid:

• Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA): Apply for disaster assistance, including grants for temporary housing and home repairs. Visit: https://www.disasterassistance.gov/ or call 800–621-FEMA (3362).
• California Community Foundation Wildfire Relief Fund: Provides financial aid for rebuilding and recovery efforts. 
  Learn more: https://www.calfund.org/wildfire-relief-fund/

Food and Supply Distribution

If you need food, clothing, or hygiene supplies, these resources are here to help:

• Los Angeles Regional Food Bank: Offers free food for individuals and families. Locate food distributions near you: https://www.lafoodbank.org/find-food/
• Salvation Army Emergency Disaster Services: Provides clothing, food, and hygiene kits. Contact your local branch: https://www.salvationarmyusa.org/usn/help-disaster-survivors/

Healthcare and Mental Health Services

Wildfires often bring physical and emotional challenges. Here’s where to find support:

• California Department of Public Health (CDPH): Offers guidance for smoke-related health issues. Learn more: https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/EPO/Pages/Wildfire.aspx
• Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741 for free, confidential mental health support 24/7.
• 211 LA County: Provides referrals to healthcare, mental health, and housing services. Dial 211 or visit: https://www.211la.org/

Pet and Animal Assistance

Don’t forget about pets and livestock during emergencies. These resources can help:

• Los Angeles Animal Services: Assists with temporary shelters for pets. Find updates here: https://www.laanimalservices.com/
• Humane Society of the United States: Offers tips and resources for evacuating with animals. Visit: https://www.humanesociety.org/resources/pet-disaster-preparedness

Recovery and Rebuilding Support

For those beginning the recovery process, these organizations offer long-term assistance:

• United Way Wildfire Recovery Fund: Provides support for long-term recovery and rebuilding efforts. Donate or apply:
• https://unitedwayla.org/wildfire-response-resources/
• California Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES): Offers guidance for returning home and rebuilding after a disaster. Visit: https://wildfirerecovery.caloes.ca.gov/general-info/rebuilding/

Legal and Housing Assistance

Navigating insurance claims and housing challenges can be overwhelming. These services offer help:

• Legal Aid Foundation of Los Angeles (LAFLA): Provides free legal assistance for wildfire-related issues, including insurance claims and tenant rights. Contact: https://lafla.org/
• California Housing and Community Development (HCD): Offers support for displaced individuals seeking temporary or permanent housing. Visit: https://www.hcd.ca.gov/

Stay Informed

Staying updated with reliable information can make all the difference during a wildfire.

• Cal Fire Incident Information: https://www.fire.ca.gov/incidents/
• Los Angeles County Emergency Alerts: https://ready.lacounty.gov/alerts/
• Watch Duty: A real-time app tracking wildfires, evacuation zones, and emergency alerts. Download Watch Duty.
• ReadyLA: Sign up for local emergency alerts at ready.lacounty.gov.
• Nixle Alerts: Text your ZIP code to 888777 for localized updates.

Final Thoughts

Navigating the challenges brought by wildfires is undeniably difficult, but it’s during these times that community support and resilience shine the brightest. Access to vital resources?—?whether for immediate shelter, financial assistance, or long-term recovery?—?is a critical lifeline for individuals and families affected by such devastating events. The organizations and services listed above provide a framework for hope and a pathway toward rebuilding lives, homes, and communities.

It’s important to remember that recovery is a journey, not a single step. Whether you’re seeking assistance with housing, medical needs, or emotional support, help is available. By leaning on these resources and connecting with local organizations, you can begin to regain stability and look ahead to the future.

Beyond individual efforts, this is also a time to come together as a community. Sharing information, volunteering, donating to trusted organizations, and checking in on neighbors can make a meaningful difference in ensuring everyone receives the help they need. Even small gestures of kindness and support contribute to collective recovery.

In the face of adversity, resilience is built not just by individuals but through the collective strength of our communities. Together, we can overcome the challenges, rebuild stronger, and create safer environments for everyone affected by wildfires. If you or someone you know is struggling, don’t hesitate to reach out to these resources?—?they’re here to help. Let’s stand united, support one another, and forge a brighter future from these challenging times.