Your Wildfire Survival Guide: Essential Resources for Shelter, Food, and Support
I'm sharing some important resources to help those in need during this difficult time. I know most already in need may have this information by now, but some may still be looking. Whether it's shelter, food assistance, or wildfire recovery tools, I've gathered everything in one place for easy access. Please feel free to share with anyone who might need it. Stay safe and take care! xo
Shelter Resources
American Red Cross Shelter Finder
Find nearby shelters in real-time during disasters.
Website:
https://www.redcross.org/.../find-an-open-shelter.html
FEMA Disaster Assistance
Provides information on shelters and temporary housing options.
Website:
https://www.disasterassistance.gov/
Salvation Army Emergency Disaster Services
Offers shelters and recovery assistance for disaster survivors.
Website:
https://www.salvationarmyusa.org/.../help-disaster.../
Local 211 Services
Connects individuals to local shelter resources and emergency housing.
Dial 211 or visit:
https://www.211.org/
Food Assistance Resources
Feeding America
Find local food banks and meal distribution services across the U.S.
Website:
https://www.feedingamerica.org/
Central Kitchen
Provides fresh meals to communities affected by disasters.
Website:
https://wck.org/
No Kid Hungry
Connects families with programs that provide free meals for children during emergencies.
Website:
https://www.nokidhungry.org/
CalFresh (California SNAP Program)
Offers emergency food benefits for eligible California residents.
Website:
https://www.getcalfresh.org/
Wildfire Recovery Tools
Insurance Claim Assistance
Provides a guide for documenting losses and filing insurance claims.
Resource: National Association of Insurance Commissioners
Website:
https://content.naic.org/consumer.htm
Debris Removal Assistance
Contact local agencies or CalRecycle for safe removal of hazardous materials.
Website:
https://calrecycle.ca.gov/
Financial and Legal Help
Free or low-cost legal and financial advice for wildfire survivors.
Website:
https://www.disasterlegalaid.org/
Educational and Mental Health Support
Wildfire Safety Education for Kids
Interactive resources to teach children how to stay safe during wildfires.
Website:
https://www.smokeybear.com/en/smokey-for-kids
Mental Health Support
Wildfires can be traumatic. Access organizations offering emotional support.
National Disaster Distress Helpline: 1-800-985-5990
Website:
https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/disaster-distress-helpline
Home Retrofit Guidance
Tips for making homes more fire-resistant, such as installing ember-resistant vents.
Website:
https://wildfireretrofit.org/
General Assistance
National Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (NVOAD)
Connects people with food, shelter, and other support during disasters.
Website:
https://www.nvoad.org/
Community Action Partnership
Provides resources for shelter, food, and utility assistance.
Website:
https://communityactionpartnership.com/
Catholic Charities USA
Offers food, shelter, and recovery support to those in need.
Website:
https://www.catholiccharitiesusa.org/
Wildfire Preparedness Resources
Ready, Set, Go! Program
This program helps families prepare for wildfires with actionable tips and checklists.
Website:
https://www.readyforwildfire.org/
Red Cross Disaster Preparedness
Comprehensive guides for creating emergency kits, evacuation plans, and recovery tips.
Website:
https://www.redcross.org/.../how-to-prepare-for...
Cal Fire Alerts and Updates
Stay informed about current wildfire activity and safety notices in California.
Website:
https://www.fire.ca.gov/
Airnow
Check real-time air quality conditions to protect yourself and your family from harmful smoke.
Website:
https://www.airnow.gov/