County: Nonprofits, Religious Organizations Are Eligible for Federal Wildfire Aid

The Federal Emergency Management Agency’s Public Assistance program, which traditionally supports repair and replacement of publicly owned infrastructure damaged in disasters, is extending aid to private nonprofit organizations and houses of worship in Los Angeles County impacted by recent wildfires. The initiative expands federal disaster recovery support to include faith-based groups and nonprofits that provide social services.

“Private nonprofits and faith-based groups that were impacted by the Los Angeles County Wildfires may be eligible for Public Assistance to help restore their damaged or destroyed facilities,” according to the January 31, 2025 announcement.

Organizations seeking assistance must complete a two-step application process. First, they need to create a Unique Entity ID at SAM.GOV to officially register their organization to apply for grants or loans from the federal government. They must then submit a Request for Public Assistance through the Federal Emergency Management Agency Grants Portal by Sunday, March 9, 2025.

Organizations should also apply with the United States Small Business Administration for a low-interest disaster loan.

The announcement comes as part of the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s broader disaster response in Los Angeles County. The agency has already approved $56.4 million in housing and other types of individual assistance for 25,625 households affected by the wildfires. A total of 119,793 individuals have registered for Federal Emergency Management Agency assistance, with Disaster Recovery Centers having assisted 10,248 households as of close of business, January 31, 2025.

Additional information about disaster assistance can be found at recovery.lacounty.gov.