Los Angeles City Resources: FEMA, Recovery, and Support

[Intro]

You’re listening to MHD Off the Record's LA City Resources. I’m Chavonne Taylor, we are setting aside our usual programming to bring you critical information and resources in light of the devastating wildfires throughout Los Angeles County.

This unprecedented event has impacted countless residents—some directly through loss and displacement, others indirectly as they support friends, family, and neighbors. On behalf of the Office of Council District 8, our hearts are with you. We stand committed to supporting both our residents and our neighbors throughout the county as we face this tragedy together.

We want to take a moment to express our gratitude to the incredible residents and organizations here in South Los Angeles and throughout the City who have stepped up to donate and distribute much-needed resources across the county. Your compassion and solidarity are truly inspiring.

Also, special thanks to our firefighters and first responders. Your tireless efforts to extinguish fires, ensure safety, and provide medical care are nothing short of heroic. We see you, and we deeply appreciate all that you are doing for our city.

The information I will be sharing on this episode comes from trusted local, state, and federal agencies working collaboratively to support our communities. And as always, all of this information is available to you in the show notes.

[Segment 1: Central Information Hub & Disaster Recovery Centers]

When a disaster as devastating as these wildfires occurs, knowing where to start can be overwhelming. That’s why the City of Los Angeles has created a centralized hub to keep everyone informed and supported.

The website Unified.lacity.gov is your go-to resource for updates on fire activity, evacuation orders, and available services. It’s designed to be a one-stop shop for critical information.

If you need direct, in-person assistance, FEMA has established Disaster Recovery Centers to provide support. There are two locations currently open:

stside: UCLA Research Park at: 10850

Eastside: Pasadena City College Community Education Center at 3035 E. Foothill Blvd., Pasadena, CA 91107.

Both centers operate daily from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., seven days a week. There, you can replace lost or damaged documents, meet with FEMA representatives to navigate insurance claims, and get updates on repopulation timelines.

-: 3362

[Segment 2: Emergency Services and Notifications]

In moments of crisis, having quick access to emergency services and real-time information can make all the difference. If you’re impacted by the wildfires or need updates, here’s where you can turn.

First, there’s CAL Fire which serves as the lead agency for wildfire response across California. You can visit their website at fire.ca.gov for up-to-date fire activity and resources.

For those in the City of Los Angeles, the LA Fire Department is actively responding to the fires and keeping residents informed. You can find the latest updates on their website at LAFD.org.

Similarly, the LA County Fire Department provides resources and emergency notifications for residents in the County. This can be especially helpful for those who live in unincorporated areas of Los Angeles. Visit, fire.lacounty.gov for information on evacuation efforts and safety measures.

So, what about staying informed in real-time? Both the City and County of Los Angeles offer emergency notification systems that you can sign up for today. And these are for any emergencies not just for wildfires.

For City of LA Notifications, go to emergency.lacity.gov/alerts and subscribe.

For LA County Notifications, visit ready.lacounty.gov.

These alerts will notify you about evacuation orders, road closures, air quality advisories, and other critical updates directly on your phone or email.

During a wildfire, one of the hardest things to face is the uncertainty about the safety of our loved ones. It’s not always easy to locate someone or to know what has happened, but there are resources to help with reunification.

-: 1800

For residents in the Altadena area, contact the LA Sheriff’s Department Altadena Station at (626) 798-1131.

-: 5799

For help getting reunified with your pet you can call Los Angeles Animal Services 213-270-8155

I know how challenging this time can be, and we want to ensure you have all the tools to stay connected and informed. These services are here to help and support you and your loved ones.

[Segment 3: Shelters and Evacuation Centers]

I also have information and resources on Shelters and Evacuation Centers. Just as a reminder, all this information and details are in the show notes.

When wildfires force people to leave their homes, having a safe place to stay is an immediate need. Los Angeles has opened several shelters and evacuation centers across the County to provide a secure space for those displaced by the fires. If you or someone you know needs shelter, please utilize or share this information.

The following evacuation centers are open to provide safety, support, and resources:

Recreation Center: Located at: 1350

Ritchie Valens Recreation Center: Located at 10736 Laurel Canyon Blvd., Pacoima, CA 91331.

E. Green St., Pasadena, CA: 91101

Pomona Fairplex: Located at 1101 W. McKinley Ave., Pomona, CA 91768.

Each of these locations offers basic necessities, including food, water, and sleeping accommodations. They are staffed with compassionate volunteers ready to assist with immediate needs.

Simply text “SHELTER” to: 43362

For those who prefer to speak with someone directly or have specific needs, you can also dial 2-1-1 to get personalized assistance in finding a shelter.

It’s not just people who need shelter during emergencies but our animal companions do too. Los Angeles has designated shelters for large animals, including:

Riverside Dr., Burbank, CA: 91506

Hansen Dam Equestrian Center: Located at 11770 Foothill Blvd., Lake View Terrace, CA 91342.

Both locations are equipped to house and care for large animals like horses, ensuring they are safe and well-treated while you focus on your own recovery.

For more locations and information regarding emergency animal shelters, you can go to animalcare.lacounty.gov and if you are in the City of Los Angeles and would like to help by temporarily fostering a pet, you can visit laanimalservices.com

Evacuation can be overwhelming, and we understand the difficulty of leaving your home and belongings behind. But it’s important to remember that these shelters are here to provide safety and security while you plan your next steps. Whether you need a place to stay for a few hours or a few days, these resources are available to support you and your family during this time.

[Segment 4: Supporting Businesses and Recovery Efforts]

Recovering from a disaster like these wildfires is never easy. It’s not just about rebuilding homes and communities—it’s also about restoring livelihoods and ensuring families and businesses have the resources they need to recover. Here, I will be outlining the support available for businesses and individuals affected by the fires.

Let’s start with businesses, which are the backbone of our local economies. For those businesses impacted, there are a variety of programs available to help you recover.

First, the City of Los Angeles Economic & Workforce Development Department, or EWDD, has programs tailored to assist businesses affected by disasters. Their team can guide you through available resources, recovery assistance, and strategies to get your operations back on track.

Additionally, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) offers disaster assistance loans. These low-interest loans are designed to cover physical damage to property as well as economic losses resulting from the wildfires. This includes assistance for nonprofits.

To learn more or apply, visit SBA.gov. I am strongly encouraging you not to wait—getting started early can make a big difference in your recovery timeline.

If you’re feeling uncertain about where to begin or need help navigating the process, remember, FEMA’s Disaster Recovery Centers are equipped to assis..

Next For residents affected by the fires, there are several city, county, and state programs available:

The City of LA Recovery Resources can be accessed at Emergency.lacity.gov/recovery.

The LA County Recovery Resources are available at Recovery.lacounty.gov/resources.

The State of California also has Recovery Resources and those are listed at ca.gov/LAfires.

These resources cover everything from temporary housing to insurance guidance, tax relief, and even mental health support.

-: 8658

Recovery is a process, and it’s okay to take it one step at a time. These programs are here to help ease the burden and provide you with the tools you need to move forward.

[Segment 5: Donations and Community Support]

During times of crisis, one of the most powerful things we can do is come together as a community. The wildfires have tested our resilience, but they’ve also shown how deeply connected we are. If you’re safe and in a position to help, there are several ways you can support relief efforts and provide resources to those in need.

There are donation locations across Los Angeles. These trusted sites are accepting contributions to help residents recover:

Councilwoman Traci Park, Council District 11 Office

Located at: 7166

They’re open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and weekends from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m.

Councilwoman Monica Rodriguez is working with the North Valley Caring Services Food Pantry

Located at: 15453

Their hours are Monday through Thursday from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Friday from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m.

Council President Marqueece Harris-Dawson, It’s Bigger Than Us (IBTU)

Located at: 4308

Open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

These locations are working hard to collect and distribute food, clothing, and other essentials to those impacted by the fires.

If you’d like to directly support the brave men and women on the front lines, you can donate to the LA Fire Department Foundation. This foundation provides critical resources to our firefighters, such as specialized equipment and wellness support.

It’s important to note that the foundation does not accept food or clothing donations.

Visit their website at supportlafd.org to learn more or to make a donation.

Sometimes, helping is as simple as reaching out to your neighbors. Check in with those around you, especially elders or families with young children who may have been displaced. See if they need any assistance. Whether it’s sharing supplies, offering transportation, or just providing a listening ear, these acts can make a big difference.

We also want to thank the many organizations and residents in LA who have already stepped up to donate and distribute resources. Your generosity and compassion are helping to rebuild lives and strengthen our community.

If you’re unsure what to donate or how to help, we encourage you to reach out to the organizations we’ve mentioned. They can provide guidance on what’s needed most and ensure your contributions have the greatest impact.

Every little bit counts, and together, we can provide comfort and hope to those who need it most.

[Segment 6: Health and Well-being]

In the aftermath of wildfires, it’s not just the visible damage that affects us. Wildfires also have a significant impact on our physical and mental health. Whether it’s smoke in the air, the stress of evacuation, or the emotional toll of uncertainty, taking care of yourself and your loved ones is critical.

Let’s talk about some steps you can take to protect your health and well-being during this time.

Now, let’s address air quality. Wildfires release smoke and harmful particles into the air, which can affect your breathing and overall health. It’s important to stay informed about the air quality in your area.

You can check real-time air quality updates by visiting Airnow.gov. Simply enter your zip code to see the conditions in your area. If the air quality is poor, The LA County Department of Public Health advises everyone to take the following precautions to reduce exposure:

Stay Inside. Keep windows and doors closed. Use an air purifier or run your air conditioning system on recirculate to keep indoor air clean.

If you must go outside, wear an N95 or P100 mask to protect your lungs.

If you are outside, wear goggles to shield your eyes from airborne ash and debris.

Stay Informed by Monitoring updates from local news sources for the latest on weather conditions, air quality, and potential evacuation notices..

For those with sensitive health conditions, it’s a good idea to have a supply of any necessary medications on hand and a plan in place for seeking medical care if symptoms worsen.

While physical health is vital, we can’t forget about the impact wildfires have on mental health. The stress of evacuating your home, worrying about loved ones, and facing the uncertainty of what comes next can take a heavy emotional toll.

-: 7771

Talking to a mental health professional or even sharing your feelings with a trusted friend or family member can provide relief and clarity. It’s okay to ask for help, and taking care of your emotional well-being is just as important as addressing physical needs.

Children can also feel the effects of this stressful time, even if they don’t fully understand what’s happening. If you’re looking for guidance on how to support your children emotionally, the Department of Mental Health and other organizations offer resources specifically for families navigating disasters like this.

Taking care of your health and well-being during a crisis is not a luxury—it’s essential. Whether it’s checking the air quality, seeking mental health support, or ensuring your family has the basics they need, these steps can make a huge difference in helping you get through this challenging time.

[Outro]

As we close, let’s remember that Los Angeles is built on resilience and community. This tragic and unprecedented event has tested us, but it has also shown us the strength of our people. Together, we will recover and rebuild.

To those affected by these fires, please know that you are not alone. Los Angeles is united for your recovery. Please share or utilize the resources that are linked in the show notes.

Thank you for listening to MHD Off the Record's LA City Resources. Our thoughts are with everyone impacted, and we’ll continue to provide updates and resources in the days ahead. Be sure to follow us on Instagram at MHDCD8 and sign up for our newsletter at mhdcd8.com to stay connected and informed. Until next time, take care of yourselves and each other.