When the Unthinkable Happens: Navigating the Aftermath of Southern California Wildfires

Wildfires are devastating. For many in Southern California, the recent Pacific Palisades, Eaton, and Hurst fires have upended lives, destroyed homes, and displaced families. Recovery from such an event is overwhelming, but with clear steps and strong community support, it is possible to rebuild.

In 2003, my family lost our home to the Cedar Fire in San Diego. It was a total loss. The weeks and months that followed were marked by grief, resilience, and a steep learning curve about navigating disaster recovery. Rebuilding took over two years. That experience shaped how I approach challenges and inspired me to share actionable steps for those currently facing the unthinkable.

This article covers the three critical steps to take immediately if your home is destroyed, actionable ways to get involved in helping wildfire victims, and the role of community-driven initiatives in disaster recovery.

My whole street was destroyed, save for one house. Here are some photos of when we visited our home after the first time.

Three Critical Steps to Take Immediately If Your Home is Destroyed

If you’ve lost your home in a wildfire, these are the foundational steps to take. These actions will ensure you begin the recovery process as smoothly as possible and secure the assistance you need.

1. Contact Your Homeowner’s Insurance Company

Your homeowner’s insurance is your first line of defense after disaster strikes. The claims process can be complex, so getting started quickly is crucial.

• File Your Claim Immediately:

• Notify your insurance company as soon as possible. Call the claims department using the contact information on your policy.

• Be prepared to share your policy number, address, and a description of the damage.

• Document the Damage:

• If safe, take photos and videos of your home and property. Capture as much detail as possible, including structural damage, destroyed belongings, and damage to landscaping or fencing.

• Understand Your Coverage:

• Ask for a comprehensive explanation of what your policy covers, including:

• Temporary housing (hotel stays, rentals).

• Rebuilding and repair costs (structural and contents coverage).

• Reimbursement for destroyed personal belongings.

• Request your policy’s declaration page (a summary of coverage details).

• Advance Payments for Essentials:

• Many insurance companies offer an advance on your claim to cover immediate needs, such as clothing, toiletries, and food. Request this if you are displaced and in need of funds right away.

• What to Avoid:

• Don’t discard damaged items until an insurance adjuster has inspected your property. They may need to verify losses as part of the claims process.

Pro Tip: Keep meticulous records of all communication with your insurer, including names, dates, and notes from phone calls.

2. Call Your Mortgage Servicer

Even if your home is no longer habitable, your mortgage obligations remain unless your lender provides relief. It is vital to inform your mortgage servicer of your situation and explore disaster relief options.

• Contact Them Immediately:

• Call the number on your mortgage statement or use your lender’s online portal to report the loss.

• Provide supporting documents, such as your insurance claim information and FEMA application, if required.

• Explore Available Relief Options:

• Forbearance Plans: Temporarily pause or reduce your monthly payments.

• Loan Modifications: Adjust your mortgage terms to make payments more manageable.

• Deferred Payments: Some lenders allow you to postpone payments, adding them to the end of your loan term without penalties.

• Know the Role of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac:
  Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac are two of the largest securitizers of home loans in the U.S. They offer disaster relief options, but the specific relief you receive depends on your servicer.

• Fannie Mae Disaster Assistance:
  Visit Fannie Mae’s Disaster Help for Homeowners for resources like:

• Payment forbearance.

• Loan modifications.

• Postponed foreclosure proceedings.

• Freddie Mac Disaster Relief:
  Check Freddie Mac’s Disaster Relief Options.

While these guidelines offer significant support, your servicer ultimately determines what programs you qualify for. Communicate proactively and confirm your options.

Pro Tip: Always clarify repayment terms for deferred or paused payments, as they can vary.

3. Apply for FEMA Assistance

FEMA provides financial assistance to cover costs not addressed by your insurance. Applying early will help expedite the process.

• What FEMA Offers:

• Temporary housing assistance.

• Grants for home repairs and personal property replacement.

• Assistance for medical, dental, and funeral expenses directly caused by the disaster.

• How to Apply:

• Visit DisasterAssistance.gov or call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 (TTY: 800-462-7585).

• You can also download the FEMA mobile app for updates and application instructions.

• Required Documentation:

• Proof of identity (government-issued ID).

• Proof of residency (utility bill, lease agreement).

• Insurance details (if applicable).

• A description of the damage or losses.

• Next Steps:

• FEMA may send an inspector to verify your losses. Be prepared to show any salvageable parts of your property and provide documentation of the damage.

Getting Involved: How You Can Help

Even if you haven’t been directly affected, there are many ways to support wildfire victims.

Donate to Trusted Organizations

Your monetary contributions can have an immediate impact. Here are some trusted organizations to consider:

• American Red Cross: Provides emergency shelters, meals, and medical care to displaced families.

• California Community Foundation Wildfire Relief Fund: Supports long-term recovery efforts, including mental health services and rebuilding homes.

• Los Angeles Regional Food Bank: Provides meals to families and individuals displaced by the fires.

• United Way of Greater Los Angeles: Offers financial assistance to low-income families and individuals impacted by the wildfires.

• GoFundMe’s Wildfire Relief Fund: Supports individual fundraising efforts for those who have lost homes and belongings.

Volunteer Your Time

Volunteering is another way to make a direct impact:

• Shelters: Contact the American Red Cross to volunteer at shelters or distribute supplies.

• Animal Rescue: Assist with pet care at shelters like the Agoura Animal Care Center or LA Equestrian Center.

• Food Banks: Help package and distribute food at the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank.

Support Grassroots Movements

Local initiatives often fill gaps in relief efforts:

• Breadbae: Donates freshly baked bread to evacuees.

• Seconds Market: Matches donors with victims for immediate assistance.

• Mutual Aid LA Network offers a directory and  google doc with resources for those affected by the fire and for volunteer opportunities

• LA area furnished leases: this is a living google doc operated by LA area real estate agents with furnished leases for those affected by the fires  

Raise Awareness

• Share verified updates about fire incidents, evacuation shelters, and resources. Use reliable sources like the CAL FIRE Incidents Page and KTLA’s Shelter List.

• Advocate for policy changes that address wildfire prevention and disaster relief funding.

A Message of Hope

Recovering from a wildfire is a long journey, but it is not one you have to face alone. Whether you’re taking the first steps toward rebuilding your life or offering support to someone in need, every action matters.

If you have additional resources or stories to share, please leave them in the comments. Together, we can support each other and rebuild stronger communities.