Dear Friend:

As the regional fires continue, my staff and I are ensuring that you receive the most up to date information. Yesterday, the Kenneth Fire started at the Victory Trailhead at the border of West Hills and Woodland Hills. Thanks to the quick efforts of Los Angeles Fire Department and Los Angeles County Fire Department, the fire was addressed quickly and evacuation orders were downgraded. Like many of you my family had packed our bags and we were ready to leave our home.

Our first responders have been working around the clock to keep us safe and I am utterly grateful. Please continue to do your part by preparing and staying alert as dangerous conditions continue. Please follow all local road guidance as firefighters, emergency responders, and City crews continue to work in the area. Thank you for your continued patience, vigilance, and for taking these situations seriously.

Below are links for real time up-to-date information:

As you may know, President Biden issued a Major Disaster Declaration for the Los Angeles fires. Residents and businesses in wildfire evacuation zones can apply NOW for immediate and long-term federal relief. Call: 800-621-FEMA (3362) or visit: disasterassistance.gov

For residents and homeowners:

Temporary displacement assistance (e.g., hotel costs for up to two weeks)
$770 for essential personal items
Larger direct grants to help cover essential needs such as medical bills, car repairs, and more

For businesses and homeowners:

Low-interest loans through the Small Business Administration (SBA) available at: https://lending.sba.gov/search-disaster/?disaster=CA-20030

The Community Investment for Families Department (CIFD) FamilySource Centers are open and available to support families during this critical time, offering emergency services, financial coaching, housing navigation, and other resources to help families rebuild and recover. Please visit LA4Families.org to find the latest updates on open locations near you.

The California Department of Insurance has teams ready to assist evacuees and people impacted by wildfires. Residents under mandatory evacuation because of wildfire could be eligible for evacuation-related expense reimbursements under their current insurance policy. Additional Living Expenses coverage typically includes food and housing costs, furniture rental, relocation and storage, and extra transportation expenses, among other costs. For questions or support, call 1 (800) 927-4357. A great video with tips about fire related insurance from Founder of Gaspar Insurance, Tim Gaspar, can be found here.

Tips from the CA Dept of Insurance:

Obtain a complete copy of your insurance policy
Take note of your additional living expense limit
Track all your additional expenses
Document all conversations with insurer/adjuster
DON’T RUSH DECISIONS

I want to give a quick shout out to incredible reporters who’ve been going 24/7 the past few days to bring everyone critical news about the unprecedented fires. Many of the media members in front of, and behind the camera, live in our communities and are also personally impacted by these events. In the face of this crisis, they continue this immensely important work.

My office and I will continue to keep you informed of any updates and community safety measures as new information becomes available.

Stay safe,

Open this email in a Web browser.

Councilmember Bob Blumenfield

200 N Spring Street, Room 465, Los Angeles, CA 90012

Unsubscribe