Golden State Today

Financial assistance for the recovery efforts following the Los Angeles County wildfires has now exceeded $2 billion, according to an announcement made by Governor Gavin Newsom. The aid comes from both the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).

"This federal disaster aid brings much-needed relief for impacted homeowners, renters, businesses grappling with loss and damage. California is grateful to President Trump and our federal partners for making this recovery a priority," said Governor Newsom.

The financial support is crucial for communities affected by the fires and has been distributed rapidly since the disaster was declared a major one by then-President Joseph R. Biden. Through this declaration, SBA provides low-interest federal disaster loans to residents and businesses in affected areas. These loans can also cover improvements aimed at minimizing future disaster damage.

Federal assistance, which includes FEMA grants and SBA Disaster Loans, has surpassed $2 billion. This comprises $200 million in FEMA assistance and $2 billion in loan offers from SBA—the largest source of federal recovery funds for homeowners, renters, businesses, and certain nonprofits.

So far, more than 31,636 households have received approval for FEMA funds. This includes over $24 million in housing assistance for rental support and home repairs, nearly $77 million for other essential needs like medical expenses or lost possessions, and over $101 million in individual housing program support. Additionally, there have been 30,563 visits to two Disaster Recovery Centers located at UCLA Research Park and Altadena Recovery Center.

The deadline to apply for both FEMA and SBA disaster assistance is March 31, 2025. Applications can be submitted online via respective websites or through helplines provided by FEMA and SBA. Assistance is available in multiple languages.