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.
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.
Financial assistance available for outdoor workers impacted by the wildfires. Learn More
Food, Clothing and Essential Services
Food Assistance
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).
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.
