Essential Wellness Resources for LA Residents

In the aftermath of the devastating Los Angeles wildfires on January 6th, 2025, LeadersUp is stepping in to support the immediate needs of those affected through paving a path towards building long-term recovery and resilience. The fires, which ravaged large parts of the historically black city of Altadena, displaced thousands in surrounding cities and caused widespread damage to homes, businesses, infrastructure and lives.

Thick heavy smoke from wildfires shrouds downtown Los Angeles on Wednesday, Jan. 8, 2025. AP Photo/Richard Vogel (Source)

In response to this crisis, LeadersUp has mobilized a comprehensive list of relief resources to support to those who have been impacted. This list emergency shelter and housing, access to food and water, medical and health support and providing mental health resources for individuals coping with the trauma of losing their homes and livelihoods.

Our shared healing paves the way toward dignified, vibrant communities across Los Angeles. By nurturing mental health and supporting each other through environmental challenges, we foster spaces where wellbeing flourishes. Together, we're creating a resilient city—where collective care leads to normalized safety, equitable opportunities, and shared power.

Together, we're creating a resilient city—where collective care leads to normalized safety, equitable opportunities, and shared power.

Below is a comprehensive list of available wildfire relief resources.

Safety

Meeting Physiological & Safety Immediate Needs

1. Emergency Shelters & Housing

   • Immediate shelter options and housing assistance for those displaced by wildfires, including partnerships with Airbnb.org and local hotels.​​

     • LA County Shelter List

     • FEMA Disaster Assistance

     • 211 LA Emergency Services

     • 211 LA is partnering with Airbnb.org, American Express, and Hilton to coordinate the distribution of emergency housing for people displaced by wildfires, including but not limited to clothing, income assistance, transportation, childcare, and more. Apply online for emergency services or dial 211.

2. Food & Water Access

   • Connect with local food banks and assistance programs to ensure access to essential nutrition and hydration.

     • LA Regional Food Bank

     • SNAP/CalFresh Benefits: Call (877) 847-3663

       
       

3. Medical & Health Support

   • Access emergency medical care and mental health services through local providers and crisis hotlines.

     • Disaster Distress Helpline: Call or Text (800) 985-5990

     • Apply for Covered California for low-cost health insurance

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Opportunity

Connecting with Resources & Community

1. Stay Informed & Connected

   • Access real-time updates about wildfire status and recovery efforts through official channels.

     • Cal Fire Incident Reports

     • Utility Support: California Public Utilities Commission

     • California Department of Insurance

2. Mental Health Resources

   • Find support for emotional wellbeing through counseling services and crisis intervention programs.

   • Free counseling: Text “HELLO” to 741741 (Crisis Text Line)

   • Pro Bono to Low-Cost Mental Health Service Providers

   • LeadersUp Resources (Available 1/23/2025)

     • Use the Feelings Wheel ​ to help identify your emotions

   • California Youth Crisis Line (CYCL) for Youth (ages 12-24) & Families: (800) 843-5200

   • LA Trauma Community Support: WhatsApp

3. Navigating the Workplace During a Crisis

   • Learn about your rights and available support for managing work responsibilities during crisis.

     • Leaves of Absence Due to Emergencies

       • Information on Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA): U.S. Department of Labor FMLA Overview

       • California Paid Family Leave (PFL): State Disability Insurance (SDI) Guide

       • Business Owner Resources

         • Information on business recovery loans: Apply for an SBA Disaster Loan.

           
           

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Power

Empowering Recovery & Resilience

1. Financial Recovery & Stability

   • Find financial assistance programs and grants to support your recovery journey​

     • Apply For Grants

       • California Fire Foundation’s Supplying Aid to Victims of Emergency (SAVE) Program: Provides financial assistance to fire victims though $250 SAVE gift cards.

         • Email save@cpf.org or call (916) 641-1707 to apply.

       • Open Air Worker Emergency Fund: Inclusive Action has launched a new emergency fund to help outdoor workers – street vendors, landscapers, and recyclers – impacted by the fires. Apply here.

   ***Avoid scams and ensure you are applying through official websites/ channels to protect against fraud.

   
   

2. Employment Resources

   • Connect with job placement services and career support programs for those affected by wildfires.

     • America’s Job Centers of California

     • Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA)​

     You may be eligible for unemployment insurance if you’ve lost work or income due to the wildfire.

LeadersUp is not responsible for the content, accuracy, or availability of information provided on third-party websites linked in this guide. Given the rapidly evolving situation, we encourage you to regularly check for the latest updates independently.