The recent wildfires have left a profound impact on our communities, but Los Angeles County is rising together to rebuild. At YDS Architects, we stand in solidarity with residents, businesses, and organizations working tirelessly toward recovery. Below are critical updates and resources to help you navigate this journey.
1. Financial Assistance for Small Businesses & Workers
Applications are now open for the LA Region Small Business and Worker Relief Funds, offering direct support to those affected by the wildfires:
- Small Business Relief Fund: Grants from 2,000–2,000–25,000 for businesses/nonprofits with structural damage, inventory loss, or revenue loss.
- Eligibility: Annual revenue ≤$6M, <100 employees.
- Worker Relief Fund: $2,000 in cash assistance for workers who lost income due to the fires.
- Eligibility: Must have been employed or self-employed in LA County during the disaster.
Apply by February 24, 2025, at 5 PM PST:
→ laregionfund.lacounty.gov
Need help? Visit Disaster Recovery Centers, America’s Job Centers, or local Business and Workforce Centers for multilingual support.
2. Free Debris Removal Program: Submit Your ROE Form
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is offering free Private Property Debris Removal (Phase 2). To participate:
- Submit the Right-of-Entry (ROE) form online by March 31, 2025.
- Already submitted via the old link? No action needed.
Deadline: March 31, 2025
→ recovery.lacounty.gov
Questions? Call the Debris Hotline: (213) 308-8305 (6 AM–9:30 PM daily).
3. FEMA Assistance: Apply by March 10
FEMA has approved over $40 million in aid for 26,768 households.
If you haven’t applied yet:Residents seeking financial help after the devastation of the wildfires can request FEMA assistance here. The deadline to apply is March 10, 2025.
Additional Links:
FEMA and SBA Resource Stations at local Supermarkets through Saturday
Disaster Unemployment Assistance
Nonprofits and houses of worship assistance
- Deadline: March 10, 2025
- Visit Disaster Recovery Centers or apply online.
4. Disaster CalFresh Food Assistance
Residents impacted by the January 2025 wildfires may qualify for Disaster CalFresh benefits.
- Apply: February 10–14 and February 12–19, 2025.
- Details: dpsslacounty.gov
5. Health & Safety Alerts
- Beach Water Quality Advisory: Avoid water contact at LA County beaches until February 9, 2025, due to elevated bacterial levels from rainfall.
- Air Quality Tips: Watch the Department of Public Health’s video for guidance on staying safe in fire-impacted areas.
How YDS Architects Supports Rebuilding
As advocates for resilient communities, YDS Architects is committed to aiding recovery through sustainable design and collaborative partnerships. We encourage affected residents and businesses to leverage these resources and reach out for guidance on rebuilding projects.
Rebuilding Our Community, Together
Recovery is a collective effort. Stay informed, share resources, and lean on your community. For ongoing updates, visit Rebuilding Together & LA County Recovers.
