Available Resources for People Impacted by Los Angeles Wildfires
Published on February 05, 2025
Below are resources for people and businesses impacted by the Los Angeles wildfires that took place in January 2025.
Helpful Resources
Federal Assistance
FEMA Disaster Assistance
Workers affected by the fires should apply for FEMA assistance by calling (800)-621-FEMA (3362) or visiting the Disaster Assistance website. FEMA assistance may include:
- Rental payments for temporary housing
- Unemployment payments for workers who temporarily lost jobs due to the disaster
- Benefits available for losses beginning the week of January 12, 2025
- Eligible full-time workers can receive between $186 and $450 per week for up to 26 weeks
- DUA benefit claims must be filed by March 31, 2025
California State Resources
LA Region Worker Relief Fund
Los Angeles County and partners have launched a LA Region Worker Relief Fund for displaced workers:
- Grants up to $2,000 for eligible applicants
- Applications will open in February 2025
- Aimed at workers experiencing job loss or significant wage reductions
Employment Development Department (EDD) Assistance
The Employment Development Department (EDD) is providing support to affected workers:
- One-week waiting period for unemployment benefits has been waived
- $20 million in aid announced to support immediate recovery efforts and displaced workers
For Life-Threatening Emergencies or Downed Power Lines
Call 9-1-1
Non-Emergency Police Response
Call (310) 837-1221
Receive Culver City Emergency Alerts
Enroll to receive emergency alerts
Or text “CCPD” to 888-777
Fallen Palm Fronds and Tree Branches
Call the Culver City Public Works Department at (310) 253-6420
Air Quality Information
Current Air Quality Data
Preparedness Information
Emergency Preparedness Resources
Community Connect
Community Connect allows Culver City residents to share valuable life-safety information with Culver City Fire Department first responders. Residents can provide details about their home, family, children, pets, medical or functional needs, and more, ensuring that when the Fire Department is dispatched to an emergency, first responders have as much information as possible before arriving on scene or have critical details about your residence in case of a disaster. Businesses can also create a profile.
Learn more on the Community Connect website.
Southern California Edison & Power Outages
Call (800) 611-1911
Southern California Edison Outage Center
If someone in your household uses life-sustaining medical equipment or relies on electricity to manage a medical condition and is not currently enrolled in SCE’s Medical Baseline Allowance program, it is important that you let SCE know so that you are notified of any Public Safety Power Shutoffs (PSPS). You can Self-Certify at SCE's website. This information is also shared with first responders to be used in the event of an emergency.
Shelters Open
For up-to-date shelter locations, visit the Red Cross website. Pet-friendly shelters can also be located on the Red Cross website.
Information about Price Gouging
Price gouging during a state of emergency is illegal under Penal Code Section 396.Californians who believe they have been the victim of price gouging should report it to local authorities or to the Attorney General on the Office of Attorney General website. To view a list of all price gouging restrictions currently in effect as a result of proclamations by Gov. Gavin Newsom, please visit the California's Office of Emergency Services website.
Volunteering
If you are interested in volunteering, please visit the L.A. Works website. People can sign up to volunteer by visiting the Red Cross volunteer webpage.
Online Donations
Physical Donations
YMCA Locations
Accepting unopened food, clothing, blankets, emergency supplies, and dog/cat food.
Please contact 211 or visit 211LA before dropping off clothing or household items to ensure donations are accepted where needed. Financial contributions remain the fastest and most effective way to help those in need, allowing us to respond immediately with critical resources.
Disclaimer: The inclusion of non-profit organizations in this list is for informational purposes only. The City of Culver City does not endorse, recommend, or guarantee the services, activities, or legitimacy of any of these organizations. This list is not intended to be a comprehensive directory and does not imply any preferential treatment or approval. Individuals are encouraged to conduct their own research and exercise due diligence when selecting an organization for donations.
Business Resources
Los Angeles Economic Development Corporation (LAEDC)
The Los Angeles Economic Development Corporation has compiled a comprehensive list resources to support businesses physically and economically affected by the recent fire and windstorms in Los Angeles. Resources include information on financial assistance programs, disaster relief initiatives, workforce support and strategies for disaster/economic resilience. Los Angeles County Wildfire Assistance
The LAEDC is also hosting weekly webinars “Together in LA” that highlight current programs and support available to impacted businesses. Previous Together for LA Webinars are available online for viewing.
U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA)
Culver City businesses economically impacted by the recent fires, are eligible to apply for Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL) for working capital. The deadline to apply for EIDL loans will be October 8, 2025, for the current fire emergency. Vist the US Small Business Administration California Wildfires Webpage.
Applications for disaster loans may be submitted online using the MySBA Loan Portal at the SBA website. Please contact the SBA’s Customer Service Center by email at disastercustomerservice@sba.gov or by phone at (800) 659-2955 for further assistance. For individuals requiring hearing or speech assistance, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services.
Los Angeles County Department of Economic Opportunity
The LA County Department of Economic Opportunity is facilitating a business space sharing program to wherein business/property owners with available space may assist other businesses recover and rebuild.
Businesses interested in participating can visit LA County ShareSpace website.
The platform and connections are facilitated by LA County, however terms and agreements are negotiated directly by the participating businesses. Both businesses interested in offering space and those looking for assistance are required to register on the site.
Culver City Hotels and Accommodations
Culver City offers a variety of accommodations within minutes from major destinations, shopping and freeways.
Boutique Hotels
Signature Brand Properties
Motels
Be Mindful of Scams
Staying vigilant during crises like wildfires is crucial, as scam artists often exploit such situations. Here are some tips to protect yourself:
- Verify Sources: Only trust information from official sources, such as government agencies or recognized organizations.
- Be Cautious with Donations: If you're considering donating, research the organization thoroughly. Look for established charities and avoid giving personal information over the phone or through unsolicited emails and text messages.
- Watch for Phishing Attempts: Be wary of emails or texts asking for personal information or urging you to click on links. Check the sender's email address and look for signs of phishing.
- Avoid Sharing Personal Information: Never provide sensitive information like Social Security numbers or bank details.
- Use Official Channels: If you receive a suspicious message, contact the organization directly using a verified phone number or website to confirm its legitimacy.
- Report Scams: If you encounter a scam, report it to local authorities or consumer protection agencies.
Red Flag Warnings & Emergency Preparedness Information
A Red Flag Warning is issued to alert the community of critical weather conditions and potential fire hazards, typically within the next 12 to 24 hours. These conditions are characterized by a combination of dry brush and strong winds that create a heightened risk for fires.
So far, the City of Culver City has not experienced significant damage from this weather event. However, it is important to understand how we will communicate with you during an emergency, what the different notifications mean, and how you can best prepare for potential risks.
What Happens If a Fire Starts Nearby?
Evacuation Warning: If a fire were to ignite in a neighboring city, the strong winds could cause the fire to spread into Culver City. In such cases if an area of the city were to be at risk, we would issue an Evacuation Warning. An Evacuation Warning designates an area that could be at risk, and we recommend that residents who need extra time to evacuate—such as those with pets—consider evacuating during this stage to ensure a safe departure.
Evacuation Order: If a fire were to threaten a specific area of Culver City, we would issue an Evacuation Order. This means that the area is immediately unsafe, and all residents within the affected zone are required to evacuate and seek shelter. Access to the area will be restricted, and individuals will not be allowed to return to their homes, even to retrieve belongings.
How Will Residents Be Notified?
In the event of an emergency, we will use multiple communication methods to alert the public:
- Everbridge Emergency Notification System
- Door-to-door notifications
- Sirens and public address (PA) systems
If you haven’t already signed up for emergency notifications, please do so as soon as possible to ensure you receive timely updates. Please follow City of Culver City, Culver City Fire Department, and Culver City Police Department official social media channels for continued updates.
Be Prepared: Create a “Go Bag”
Regardless of whether you live in a fire-prone area, it’s essential to be prepared for any emergency. Having a “Go Bag” ready ensures that you can evacuate quickly if needed. A “Go Bag” should contain essential items such as important documents, medications, clothes, and other necessities. Since Red Flag Warnings are becoming more frequent, it’s a good idea to keep your Go Bag near the front door for easy access if evacuation becomes necessary.
Learn more on wildfire preparedness and about CAL FIRE’s Ready, Set, Go program.