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Downtown Weekly is committed to supporting residents impacted by the Los Angeles Hurricane-Force Firestorm as they navigate the recovery process sharing updated information about local, state and government support for LA Fire Disaster Victims.

_{Main photo by Bay Photography}

For Immediate Release – Los Angeles – Two FEMA Disaster Recovery Centers will open Tuesday, January 14th in Los Angeles County to assist Californians who experienced damage to their primary home, personal property loss, or have disaster-caused emergency needs related to the wildfires.

At the Center of Assistance

At the centers, people can get help applying for federal assistance, speak to representatives from state and federal agencies, receive updates on their FEMA application for assistance, and learn about the appeals process.

The centers open Tuesday, Jan. 14, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. PST. After Tuesday, Jan. 14, the hours and locations will be as follows:

• UCLA Research Park West
  10850 West Pico Blvd.
  Los Angeles, CA 90064
  Hours of operation: Daily: 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.

• Pasadena City College Community Education Center
  3035 East Foothill Blvd.
  Pasadena, CA 91106
  Hours of operation: Daily: 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.

***Donations will not be accepted at Disaster Recovery Center locations.

FEMA financial assistance may include money for basic home repairs, personal property losses, or other uninsured, disaster-related needs such as childcare, transportation, medical needs, funerals, or dental expenses. 

It is not necessary to go to a center to apply for FEMA assistance. The fastest way to apply is online at DisasterAssistance.gov or via the FEMA app or by calling 1-800-621-3362. There’s also a relay service, such as video relay, captioned telephone, or other service.

Los Angeles County survivors who register for FEMA assistance will receive a decision letter by mail or on their DisasterAssistance.gov account.

The county states it is important to read the letter carefully as it will explain the application status and advise the applicant on what to do to continue the process.

Resources for financial assistance, housing, funds for repair, and more are available to help individuals and families. Visit CA.gov/LAFires for up-to-date information on disaster recovery programs, important deadlines, and how to apply for assistance.

Visit a Disaster Recovery Center or call the FEMA Helpline at 1-800-621-3362. 

For the latest information about California’s recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4856