Disaster Resources | Your Light at the End of the Tunnel

by Sarah Arlington

As we all begin to shift the collective consciousness towards hope and relief that is approaching, it goes without saying that there will continue to be difficult days ahead. As we transition through these dark times, there will be an eventual resolution, a positive outcome, in sight. We know there are challenges that are still unknown so we have compiled a comprehensive summary of disaster relief resources to help you navigate these difficult days ahead.

There may be things on this list that jump out to you that haven't crossed your mind yet. We have designed this guide to highlight key programs, provide direct links, and offer brief descriptions of the assistance available. You can click on each link for immediate access to that specific resource.

1. Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Disaster Assistance

Description: FEMA provides financial assistance to individuals and households affected by disasters. Eligible applicants can receive aid for housing, personal property loss, and other disaster-related expenses.
How to Apply: Visit DisasterAssistance.gov to determine eligibility and apply online.

2. California Association of Realtors® (C.A.R.) Disaster ResourcesDescription

Description: The C.A.R. Disaster Resources page provides essential support for California residents affected by disasters. It includes access to financial assistance, housing support, and recovery guidance to help individuals and families navigate the aftermath of emergencies.
How to Access: Visit the C.A.R. Disaster Resources page to explore available programs and resources tailored to disaster recovery efforts. C.A.R. Disaster Resources

3. Watch Duty – Wildfire Information

Description: Watch Duty is a real-time wildfire monitoring app that provides up-to-date information about wildfires, including locations, alerts, and emergency updates. It is powered by trusted professionals and volunteers, ensuring accurate and timely details to keep communities safe.

How to Access: Download the Watch Duty app or visit their website to monitor wildfires in your area and stay informed during wildfire emergencies. Watch Duty

4. U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) Disaster Assistance

Description: The SBA offers low-interest disaster loans to businesses, homeowners, and renters to repair or replace property damaged by disasters.
How to Apply: Check for active disaster declarations and apply for a disaster loan through the SBA Disaster Assistance portal. Assistance loans and other resources.

5. California Infrastructure and Economic Development Bank (IBank)

Description: IBank provides loan programs for businesses affected by disasters in California, including the Disaster Relief Loan Guarantee Program and the Jump Start Loan Program.
More Information: Visit the IBank website for details on available programs and application procedures. https://ibank.ca.gov/small-business/disaster-relief/

6. C.A.R. Quick Guide – Fire Insurance

Description: This guide provides essential information about fire insurance for California property owners. It explains policy basics, coverage options, and considerations for properties in wildfire-prone areas, helping homeowners make informed decisions to protect their investments.
How to Access: Download the Fire Insurance Quick Guide from the California Association of Realtors® website to better understand fire insurance and coverage needs.

C.A.R. Fire Insurance Quick Guide

7. How to Find Fire Insurance – C.A.R. Resource

Description: This guide provides tips and resources for California homeowners struggling to find fire insurance due to rising costs and limited availability. It outlines steps to secure coverage, including alternative options like the FAIR Plan, and offers strategies to navigate the challenging insurance landscape in high-risk wildfire areas.
How to Access: Download the "How to Find Fire Insurance" guide from the California Association of Realtors® website for expert advice and actionable steps to protect your property.How to Find Fire Insurance

8. California Capital Access Program (CalCAP)

Description: CalCAP encourages banks and financial institutions to make loans to small businesses that have difficulty obtaining financing, offering up to 100% coverage on certain loan defaults.
More Information: Find participating lenders and program details on the California State Treasurer’s Office website. https://www.treasurer.ca.gov/cpcfa/calcap/

9. California Department of Insurance – Home Insurance Finder

Description: This interactive tool helps California residents locate insurance companies that offer homeowners and fire insurance in their area. It provides a user-friendly way to search for available coverage options, especially for those in high-risk wildfire zones.
How to Access: Use the Home Insurance Finder on the California Department of Insurance website to explore available insurance providers and policies tailored to your location. Home Insurance Finder

10. American Red Cross Disaster Relief Services

Description: The American Red Cross provides emergency shelter, food, and support to individuals affected by disasters.
Find Assistance: Locate open shelters and access services through the American Red Cross Disaster Relief page.

11. U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Disaster Resources

Description: HUD offers support for ongoing recovery through programs and partnerships, including housing counseling and assistance for displaced individuals.
More Information: Explore available resources on the HUD Disaster Resources page. https://www.hud.gov/disaster_resources

12. Internal Revenue Service (IRS) Disaster Assistance and Emergency Relief

Description: The IRS provides tax relief to individuals and businesses affected by federally declared disasters, including extensions for filing returns and payment deadlines.
More Information: Learn about available tax relief on the IRS Disaster Assistance page.

13. U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) Disaster Recovery

Description: The EDA offers resources to support economic recovery and resilience in communities affected by disasters, emphasizing long-term recovery planning.
More Information: Access the EDA Disaster Recovery page for funding opportunities and resources. https://www.eda.gov/strategic-initiatives/disaster-recovery

14. FEMA Recovery and Resilience Resource Library

Description: This tool helps users find and research federal disaster recovery resources beneficial for pre-disaster recovery planning and post-disaster recovery efforts.
Access the Library: Visit the FEMA Recovery and Resilience Resource Library for more information. https://www.fema.gov/emergency-managers/practitioners/recovery-resources

15. Disaster Relief Resource Center - AICPA

Description: The American Institute of CPAs provides guidance and resources across key areas—advocacy, disaster preparation, relief, and recovery—to support those affected by disasters.
More Information: Explore the AICPA Disaster Relief Resource Center for tools and information. https://www.aicpa-cima.com/resources/landing/disaster-relief-resource-center

16. Senator Alex Padilla’s Disaster Resources

Description: Senator Padilla’s office offers information on federally designated disasters and assistance available to Californians, including guidance on applying for FEMA aid.
More Information: Visit Senator Padilla’s Disaster Resources page for assistance. https://www.padilla.senate.gov/wildfire-resources/

17. California Association of Realtors® (C.A.R.) Disaster Relief Resources

Description: C.A.R. provides materials to help members and consumers recover from wildfires and other natural disasters, including information on protecting homes and maintaining insurance coverage.
More Information: Access resources on the C.A.R. Disaster Relief page.

18. Wildfire Preparedness Checklist

Description: This checklist provides a comprehensive guide to help homeowners prepare for wildfire season. It includes actionable steps for creating defensible space, assembling emergency kits, and developing an evacuation plan to enhance safety and readiness.How to Access: Download the Wildfire Preparedness Checklist as a PDF to ensure your home and family are ready in the event of a wildfire.Wildfire Preparedness Checklist

19. C.A.R. Quick Guide – Natural Disasters

Description: This guide provides essential information for homeowners and buyers about preparing for and responding to natural disasters in California. It covers key topics such as disaster preparedness, insurance considerations, and recovery resources to help protect your property and loved ones.How to Access: Download the Natural Disasters Quick Guide from the California Association of Realtors® website to learn how to prepare for and recover from natural disasters.C.A.R. Natural Disasters Quick Guide

20. Wildfire Preparedness: How FortressFire Helps California Homeowners

Description: This blog post from Rooster Homes highlights how FortressFire assists California homeowners in reducing wildfire risks. It explains the innovative solutions offered by FortressFire to protect properties, enhance safety, and ensure peace of mind during wildfire season.How to Access: Read the blog post on the Rooster Homes website to learn how FortressFire can help you prepare for wildfires and safeguard your home. Wildfire Preparedness: How FortressFire Helps California Homeowners

21. Best Friends Animal Society – Los Angeles Wildfire Emergency Response

Description: This resource from Best Friends Animal Society provides guidance and support for pet owners during Los Angeles wildfires. It includes tips for wildfire preparedness, evacuation planning for pets, and resources for animal rescue and shelter during emergencies.
How to Access: Visit the Best Friends Animal Society webpage to learn how to protect your pets and access emergency assistance during wildfire events in Los Angeles.

Best Friends Animal Society – Los Angeles Wildfire Emergency Response

22. DAV Disaster Relief for Veterans

Description: The Disabled American Veterans (DAV) organization provides disaster relief resources for veterans, including assistance with evacuation, housing, and recovery efforts in the wake of natural disasters. This program is designed to support veterans and their families during times of crisis.
How to Access: Visit the DAV website to learn more about the disaster relief services available to veterans and how to access support during emergencies.