United in Recovery: New Website Launches to Support Wildfire Survivors
To the thousands of Southern Californians devastated by the Palisades, Eaton, Hurst, Woodley, Lidia, Sunset, and Kenneth fires, words fall short of capturing the profound scars left on our landscape and in our hearts. These fires have reshaped our communities and lives, leaving behind a trail of pain, loss, and uncertainty.
At EKA, during this time of heartbreak and uncertainty, we are committed to providing unwavering support, valuable resources, and expert guidance to help navigate the challenges ahead. To assist those affected by these unprecedented events, we will continue providing essential information designed to offer clarity and assistance when needed most.
Even as our brave first responders tirelessly fight to protect lives and property, we want to remind everyone that hope is within reach. Resources are available to help you rebuild your life and recover from this devastating time. We urge you to take that first courageous step toward healing by applying for federal assistance today. You are not alone; together, we can rise stronger than ever.
California has launched CA.gov/LAfires, a comprehensive hub for information and resources from state, local, and federal agencies. This platform is designed to guide wildfire survivors on applying for assistance and accessing the help you need.
How to Apply for Federal Disaster Assistance:
- Online: DisasterAssistance.gov
- By Phone: Call (800) 621-3362
- FEMA Smartphone Application
- FEMA Recovery Centers (Countywide): 8 County libraries open Monday, January 13, 2025, from 9am-5pm to assist residents affected by the wildfires to submit applications for disaster relief.
- San Fernando Library
- West Hollywood Library
- Alhambra Civic Center
- La Crescenta Library
- La Canada Flintridge Library
- Live Oak Library
- Temple City Library
- San Gabriel Library
- FEMA Recovery Centers (Countywide): 8 County libraries open Monday, January 13, 2025, from 9am-5pm to assist residents affected by the wildfires to submit applications for disaster relief.
New FEMA Disaster Recovery Center Opening
The Disaster Recovery Center is open at the UCLA Research Park – 10800 W Pico Blvd Los Angeles CA 90064, formerly known as the Westside Pavilion. It will operate from 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM, 7 days per week. These centers will help people:
- Who have lost vital records (birth certificates, death certificates, driver’s licenses, social security documentation).
- Who have lost their homes or businesses apply for disaster relief loans.
- And they will provide referrals for mental health counseling and other services.
Emotional Support:
We understand that the toll of these fires isn’t just physical—it’s emotional, too. If you or someone you know is struggling, please call or text the Disaster Distress Helpline at 1-800-985-5990. This national hotline offers free, 24/7 crisis counseling to anyone facing emotional distress related to these wildfires.
Care Camp (Emotional Support Youth and Children)- LA County Parks and Recreation
Support for Rebuilding and Recovery:
In recognition of the urgent need to rebuild, Governor Gavin Newsom has suspended certain environmental laws to expedite construction and recovery in affected wildfire zones. Building permit requirements and reviews under the California Environmental Quality Act and the California Coastal Act have been streamlined for impacted areas like Pacific Palisades and Altadena.
The Governor has also issued an executive order to ensure immediate debris removal and preparation for potential mudslides or flooding as winter rains approach. These proactive measures aim to protect our communities from further harm. You can read the full executive order here: Executive Order N-5-25.
Additional Resources:
A ‘One Hub’ resources website providing emergency information and recovery resources is live at lacity.gov.
The Greater Los Angeles Education foundation created the Wildfire Recovery Fund @GLAEF to help provide vital resources to students, families and educators that have been most affected. You can donate – here.
The Valley Economic Reliance will be hosting a free webinar on January 14th at 10:00 AM designed to connect small businesses with vital information and recovery tools. To register, click here.
Donation Drop-Off Centers:
City of Los Angeles: Donation items are requested based on reported community needs. Please do not bring donations to fire stations. For more information on the Donation Drop-Off Centers in the City of Los Angeles, click here.
Non Profit Donation Centers: 1/11-1/17 (Partner organizations will distribute to the impacted areas)
- CHIRLA: 2533 W 3rd St, #101 LA CA 90057 (M-F 10AM-4PM)- Rampart Village
- SCOPE: 1715 W Florence Ave, LA CA 90047 (Sat 9AM-1PM; W, TH, F 9AM-5PM)- South L
- Community Coalition: 8101 S Vermont Ave LA CA 90044 (Sun 10AM-2PM; MON,Tu 9AM-8PM)-South LA
City of Pasadena: NEW Donation Location- Santa Anita Race Track (South Side, Lot B by Gate 3 or 8), 285 Huntington Dr. Arcadia CA 91007. Please DO NOT take donations to the Pasadena Convention Center, Rose Bowl, and Parson Complex Parking Lot, click here.
Eaton Fire Recharge Donation Center
LA County Recovery Maps
Maps showing the status of buildings in the Palisades and Eaton wildfire zones are available on Los Angeles County’s recovery website: Los Angeles County Recovery Maps
To all who have been impacted, know that you are not alone. Together, we will heal, rebuild, and rise stronger than before. Californians are resilient, and we are here for you every step of the way.