The government released its updated Fire Relief Website On Thursday, Los Angeles County offers a one-stop shop to help storm survivors access vital services.
Fire victims can use the website to find information on how to apply for Federal Emergency Management Agency disaster relief, file insurance claims, transfer documents and return to their homes safely. It provides assistance in accessing food, reimbursement and shelter, and provides real-time updates via fire maps, air quality information and road closure maps.
The website was redesigned to more prominently display on-demand resources and provide an estimated wait time for those planning to visit the Disaster Recovery Center. A feature is in the works to help survivors access services using a single Login.gov account.
“We brought together a broad team and used all of our tools to make the digital experience survivor-centric,” California Government Operations Secretary Amy Tong said in a statement on the new website.
There is also an area for business owners who have been affected by the fires and are looking for tax relief, as well as a center for people who want to donate money or volunteer to help those affected by the wildfires. Those planning to visit the relief center can use the checklist page to ensure they bring the correct documents.
Services offered at Disaster Recovery Centers:
- Food assistance
- Health services and counseling
- Unemployment and disability benefits
- Exchange of personal documents
- Tips for Hiring Contractors
- Assist with insurance claims
- Tax assistance and relief
- Federal assistance including housing, home repair and legal aid
Centers at UCLA Research Park West, 10850 W. Pico Blvd. and Pasadena City College Community Education Center, 3035 E. Foothill Blvd. Open seven days a week from 9am to 8pm.
The state's first fire relief website was launched on January 10 and has been visited more than 300,000 times. On the revamped website, users can take an online survey, which state officials say will be used to further improve the site and improve the experience at in-person disaster relief centers.