There are many agencies, both private and public, that do everything from help you prepare for a loss to recover from a major disaster. For more information on how they can help you, please click the link and contact a representative through their site.
Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)
FEMA is a federal government agency that is part of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS). In addition to helping America prepare for and protect against disasters, they provide on-site response, recovery and mitigation assistance to areas declared a disaster by our Federal government.
Governor’s Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES)
Cal EOS is a state-run program that assists Californian’s with preparing for and recovering from disasters. The goal is “to protect lives and property by effectively preparing for, preventing, responding to, and recovering from all threats, crimes, hazards, and emergencies.” They provide a number of grants and training programs to help achieve this goal.
Be Prepared California
Be Prepared California is an initiative of the California Department of Public Health. They provide resources and preparedness plans to help Californian’s be prepared for the next big disaster.
IRS Disaster Assistance & Emergency Relief
The IRS has special tax laws that may help taxpayers and businesses recover financially following a major disaster. For more information on the programs available and if they are applicable to you, please visit their website and discuss with your accountant.
SBA Disaster Assistance
The Small Business Association provides low-interest loans to businesses, non-profit organizations, homeowners, and renters to help them repair or replace items destroyed in a declared disaster. For more information and the loan application, please visit their website and contact a representative.
American Red Cross
The American Red Cross provides free assistance aimed at relieving your immediate needs following a disaster. They provide essential help in your time of need, and do not require the government to declare your emergency a major disaster in order to provide support. You can connect with the Los Angeles Region Chapter by clicking here.
Salvation Army
The Salvation Army provides a wide array of disaster relief services, from immediate on-site response to clean-up and long-term recovery. You can connect with the Southern California chapter here.
Additional Disaster Relief Organizations
There are many other disaster assistance agencies throughout the United States. Please click the link above to find a list and see which organization best suits your needs.
