California Wildfire Resources – January 2025

FEMA: Apply for Assistance 

After making a claim with their insurance provider, the first step residents can take to jumpstart their recovery is to apply for FEMA assistance. There are three ways to apply:

1. Online at DisasterAssistance.gov. If you have access to the internet and your electronic devices have power, applying online is the easiest, fastest and most convenient way to apply.
2. On the FEMA app for mobile devices, www.fema.gov/about/news-multimedia/mobile-products. 
3. Calling the FEMA Helpline at 1-800-621-3362. Calls are accepted every day from 4 a.m. to 10 p.m. Pacific Standard Time. Help is available in most languages. If you use a relay service, such as video relay (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA the number for that service. To view an accessible video about how to apply, click here: FEMA Accessible: Registering for Individual Assistance.

US Government

Learn how the U.S. government is responding to the Southern California wildfires. Find resources to help you recover from the disaster: www.usa.gov/california-wildfires

California Department of Social Services

This guide provides detailed information about the types of federal, state and local disaster assistance services available in California. Although some of the resources are restricted to individuals or households with lawful immigration status, there are many services available to all Californians impacted by the wildfires.

Guide to Disaster Assistance Services for Californians

Housing

• To support residents who have been displaced from their homes or forced to evacuate by the wildfires, Airbnb is working with 211LA.org which serves Los Angeles County, to offer free, temporary housing.
• Stays are completely free for guests and are funded by Airbnb and the generosity of Airbnb hosts, many of whom offer their home for free or at a discount through AirBNB.org.

Mental Health

• If you or a loved one is struggling with a mental health crisis or considering suicide, call or text 988. You can also reach out online at chat.988lifeline.org. 
• In cases of immediate danger, call 9-1-1.
• The Los Angeles County ACCESS Center is open and operational 24/7 as the entry point for mental health services, information and referrals. Call 1-800-854-7771.
• You can also dial the Disaster Distress Helpline 24/7 at 800-985-5990 or text "TalkWithUs" to 66746.