Wildfire Resources for Recovery and Support

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:

• LA County Emergency Updates(Link is external): Sign up for the latest recovery resources and emergency updates.
• LAist Quick Guides(Link is external): Find guides on donating, volunteering, managing air quality, and filing insurance claims.
• Disability Disaster Access(Link is external): 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:

• LA County Wildfire Recovery Resources(Link is external) (Link opens in new window)
• File a FEMA claim:
  • Online: DisasterAssistance.gov(Link is external)
  • 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(Link is external)
• Tax relief and business support: LA County Recovery Resources(Link is external)

For Mental Health and Well-Being

Recovery takes time, and mental health support can make a difference. Below are immediate resources:

• Disaster Distress Helpline(Link is external): Call or text 800-985-5990 (available 24/7)
• Soluna app(Link is external): Free mental health support for California teens and young adults
• BrightLife Kids(Link is external): Free mental health resources for families with children up to age 12
• Together for Wellness(Link is external): Mental health resources available in multiple languages
• Bounceback Now(Link is external): A free mobile app for emotional recovery after disasters

Help Me Grow LA(Link is external): 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(Link is external): 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(Link is external): Explore trauma-focused interventions.
  • National Center for PTSD(Link is external): Find PTSD treatment options.
  • National Child Traumatic Stress Network(Link is external): Learn about treatments for children and families.
  • American Psychological Association(Link is external): 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.