Following the devastating Eaton Fire that destroyed their Altadena home, Pete and Angela Mitchell, like many others impacted by the Los Angeles wildfires, are facing uncertainty and challenges in navigating the recovery process. Despite registering for FEMA assistance, they encountered hurdles such as a letter of non-approval and difficulties in providing necessary insurance documents.
To address the needs of survivors like the Mitchells, nonprofits in the region are gearing up to provide unprecedented levels of support through disaster case managers and advocates. These trained professionals will assist households in developing long-term recovery plans, connecting them with resources, and advocating on their behalf.
With tens of thousands of FEMA applications submitted but only a fraction approved for Individual Assistance, the role of these nonprofits becomes crucial in guiding survivors through the appeals process and ensuring they receive the support they need.
Case managers and advocates not only assist with paperwork but also provide essential human connection, building trust and understanding with survivors who may be hesitant to seek help due to past traumas or misinformation.
Survivors can access these services by contacting local helplines or filling out intake forms online with organizations like LARCRO and Catholic Charities of Los Angeles. Outreach efforts are being made to reach all affected individuals, including homeowners, renters, small business owners, and those who have lost employment.
While FEMA provides funding for disaster case management, nonprofits rely on philanthropic and local support to hire and train case managers. These donations have proven to be impactful, with every dollar invested resulting in three dollars of assistance for survivors.
Ultimately, the goal is to ensure that no one is left behind in the recovery process. By providing ongoing support and assistance, these nonprofits are committed to staying with survivors until the long-term recovery is complete.
