The Federal Emergency Management Agency has extended the deadline for victims of a Los Angeles wildfire to apply for federal aid until March 31st.
So far, FEMA has distributed more than 30,468 people over $84.2 million, affected by what officials warn of it as the most expensive disaster in modern history. FEMA grants do not need to be repaid and can be used to cover rental assistance, temporary homes, home repairs, property losses, and other disaster-related needs that are not covered by insurance.
The Palisade and Eton fires that ignited on January 7th destroyed more than 16,000 structures and tore 37,400 acres of Pacific Palisade, Malibu, Pasadena and Altadena. Estimates of total economic losses from the fire have increased to more than $250 billion.
The original deadline for applications for homeowners, tenants and federal funds affected by the wildfires was Monday, but Gov. Gavin Newsom and a delegation to the California Legislature have requested an extension so that more people can sign up.
“We appreciate your acceptance of FEMA and the Trump administration’s request to expand separate aid programs as the Los Angeles community continues to rebuild and recover,” Newsom said in a statement. “I encourage Angelenos, who was influenced by Eton and Palisade. [fires] Help them recover as they apply for federal assistance. ”
Additionally, the extension until March 31st is the deadline for businesses to apply for assistance through small and medium-sized business management and individuals to apply to the employment development department seeking support for disaster unemployment.
Disaster unemployment assistance is for people who do not improve the quality of regular unemployment benefits, such as self-employed people or those who have lost wages due to fire.
People can use the FEMA smartphone app, either using the FEMA helpline at (800) 621-3362, or directly at one of the Disaster Recovery Centers in Los Angeles.
Individuals whose property has been damaged by Firestorm will also need to opt for the free government-run Phase 2 debris removal process until March 31st. According to US Environmental Protection Agency data, phase 1 debris removal, including the removal of hazardous waste, has already been completed with 13,612 pieces of land provided.
Phase 2 debris removal involves removing remaining debris such as damaged vehicles, structures, wood, ash and more. Homeowners can also opt out of phase 2 removal and manage cleanup independently.
About 8,200 households have so far selected, and around 760 have opted out, according to data from LA County.
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