If you’ve been impacted by the Los Angeles wildfires, there are many resources available to help you navigate recovery and access support. Below is a trusted list of support options to address basic needs, emotional well-being and mental health services. Many of these websites are updated regularly with new information.
For Basic Needs
Below are trusted resources to help meet your immediate needs:
- 211 LA County: Offers a comprehensive list of resources, including temporary housing, food distribution, and emergency updates (e.g., evacuation orders, power outages, road closures).
- LA County Emergency Updates: Sign up for the latest recovery resources and emergency updates.
- LAist Quick Guides: Find guides on donating, volunteering, managing air quality, and filing insurance claims.
- Disability Disaster Access: Get support for people with disabilities and older adults.
For Direct Loss
If you’ve experienced property, personal, or employment loss, these resources can help you begin recovery:
- File a FEMA claim:
- Online: DisasterAssistance.gov
- Phone: 800-621-3362 (Helpline is open 7 am – 10 pm daily)
- Mobile app: Download the FEMA app.
- In-person: Visit a Disaster Recovery Assistance Center near you. Locations are available on the FEMA app or website.
- FEMA Road to Recovery Checklist
- Tax relief and business support: LA County Recovery Resources
For Mental Health and Well-Being
Recovery takes time, and mental health support can make a difference. Below are immediate resources:
- Disaster Distress Helpline: Call or text 800-985-5990 (available 24/7)
- Soluna app: Free mental health support for California teens and young adults
- BrightLife Kids: Free mental health resources for families with children up to age 12
- Together for Wellness: Mental health resources available in multiple languages
- Bounceback Now: A free mobile app for emotional recovery after disasters
Help Me Grow LA: Connects families to local programs and services
Finding a Mental Health Provider
While many people find strength and healing through their support networks and coping strategies, others may learn that professional guidance works best for them. To find a mental health expert, turn to any of these resources:
- LA County 24/7 Mental Health Helpline: Call 800-854-7771 for immediate assistance.
- Psychology Today: Search for mental health providers near you.
- Insurance support: Contact your health insurance provider to find in-network therapists or psychiatrists.
When choosing a provider, keep the following in mind:
- Comfort level: Choose someone you feel comfortable with after an initial session.
- Evidence-based treatments: Providers should use proven techniques such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) or trauma-focused therapies. You can find more information on evidence-based treatments from the following:
- California Evidence-Based Clearinghouse for Child Welfare: Explore trauma-focused interventions.
- National Center for PTSD: Find PTSD treatment options.
- National Child Traumatic Stress Network: Learn about treatments for children and families.
- American Psychological Association: Provides clinical practice guidelines for PTSD.
- Experience: Ask if they specialize in trauma, grief, or disaster recovery.
- Licensure: Ensure the provider is state-licensed.
- Session details: Confirm insurance coverage, session length, session type (in-person or telehealth) and costs for additional appointments.
Note: Additional disaster mental health services will be added in the next month from the SAMHSA Crisis Counseling Program.
See information on clinical impacts on UCLA Health operations.
