The recent wildfires that swept through Los Angeles County have upended lives, leaving many without homes, belongings, or a sense of stability. In times like these, access to reliable information and support is critical.
This guide provides essential resources to help individuals and families recover, rebuild, and find the assistance they need. From shelter and food to mental health support and legal aid, Center staff have compiled a list of resources to help you navigate this challenging time.
LA Wildfires: Emergency Resources
General Assistance
California Department of Social Services Disaster Help Center: Provides assistance with food, housing, and financial recovery for individuals and families affected by disasters.
YMCA Support Services: The YMCA is offering no-cost support to the impacted community across LA, including the following:
Showers, Food, and Essential Items: All YMCA centers are providing free access to showers, meals, water, and essential supplies.
Free Childcare: The YMCA is offering free childcare for children aged 4 years and 9 months through 8th grade. Space is limited, so early registration is encouraged.
Mental Health Support: Licensed social workers are available to provide immediate emotional support for youth and families, along with help connecting to additional resources.
Services: Luxury pet boarding and grooming services in a resort-like setting.
Transportation Resources
Free Rides to Shelters:
Lyft: Use code CAFIRERELIEF25 for a free ride up to $25 (2 rides max).
Uber: Use code WILDFIRE25 for a free ride up to $40 to designated shelter locations.
Offer valid until January 15th.
LA Metro Free Rides: Metro has suspended fare collection on all buses and trains to support individuals affected by wildfires
For live updates on service impacts due to wind and wildfires, visit: LA Metro Live Updates.
Big Blue Bus Free Rides: Santa Monica’s Big Blue Bus is offering free rides on all routes to assist evacuees. For more information, visit their Instagram announcement: Big Blue Bus Instagram Post.
Los Angeles Regional Food Bank: Provides free groceries and meals to individuals and families in need. Visit their website to find a food distribution location near you.
CalFresh Program: Offers monthly food benefits to eligible households. Apply online or visit a local office for assistance.
Mental Health Help Line: Call (800) 854-7771 or text “LA” to 741741 to find immediate help or access local mental health services. This 24/7 multilingual LA County hotline also enables disaster victims to receive screening, assessment, referrals and crisis counseling over the telephone.
A 24/7, free, confidential national helpline that connects you to immediate crisis
counseling if you are experiencing emotional distress related to a disaster. This includes survivors of the disaster, loved ones of victims, first responders, rescue and recovery workers, faith leaders, local leaders, and parents and caregivers. Call for yourself or for someone else.Contact the helpline by phone:
English: Call or text “talk” to 1-800-985-5990 and press “1”
Español: Llama o envía un mensaje de texto 1-800-985-5990 presiona “2”
Deaf and Hard of Hearing ASL: Connect directly with an agent in American Sign here Disaster Distress Helpline or call 1-800-985-5990 from your videophone
Los Angeles Unified School District Resources:
Student and Family Wellness Resource Line: 213-241-3840 (7 AM – 6 PM, Mon-Fri).
Disclaimer: This is for purposes of resource sharing only. The Center has no vested interest in any of these therapists nor are we aware of what insurance coverage is applicable. The Center is not responsible for verifying provider licensing information or other liabilities associated with offering such services.
Insurance Support Workshops in Pasadena and Santa Monica
The California Department of Insurance, led by Insurance Commissioner Ricardo Lara, is hosting free two-day workshops to assist Los Angeles residents impacted by the recent wildfires.
These workshops are designed to provide guidance and support on insurance claims and related concerns.
United Policyholders Roadmap to Recovery® Program:
This program offers free tools, resources, and expert advice to help you navigate insurance claims and disaster recovery.
