Rep. Judy Chu (CA-28) has announced significant updates to resources available for residents and businesses impacted by the Eaton Fire, ensuring access to necessary recovery support through extended application deadlines. As communities around El Monte and across the district continue to rebuild, these updates provide critical information on securing federal aid.
The most pressing update includes deadlines for applying for Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) assistance and Small Business Administration (SBA) loans, both set for March 31. These resources offer financial relief ranging from displacement assistance, essential item coverage to more substantial aids for rebuilding efforts. Rep. Chu advocated for these extensions, highlighting the ongoing needs of the affected community members.
Residents of the affected areas are encouraged to review the aid available comprehensively. FEMA assistance offers up to 14 days of hotel expenses, $770 for immediate needs, and grants for more extensive damages such as medical bills and vehicle replacement. For local entrepreneurs and homeowners, the SBA provides low-interest loans crucial for the restoration of properties and businesses.
The guide also details the government-led debris removal program, managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. The decision to opt into this program must be made by the March 31 deadline. This service, crucial for safe and efficient cleanup, is available at no out-of-pocket cost to survivors after insurance considerations.
“Federal disaster assistance has been crucial following the devastation caused by the Eaton Fire,” explained Rep. Chu. She emphasized the continued commitment to ensuring that every afflicted community member in Altadena, Pasadena, and surrounding areas receives necessary support to rebuild their lives and establishments. She further encouraged affected residents to assess their situation and apply for the aid that would best support their recovery process.
Applications for FEMA Individual Assistance can be made online, via phone, or in person at the Disaster Recovery Center located at 540 West Woodbury Rd., Altadena. For the SBA Disaster Loan, applications are accepted online or by phone. Concerning the debris removal program, eligible residents must submit a Right of Entry form by the deadline through various available methods, including online platforms and in-person submissions at disaster recovery centers.
For those needing more information or specific queries about debris removal, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has established a Debris Call Center operational from 6 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.
“This is the very least we can do for those who have lost so much,” said Rep. Chu, emphasizing the importance of taking advantage of the available resources. She reassured the community of ongoing support from her office in navigating through the recovery phase.
These deadlines are crucial for ensuring that all affected members of the community receive the support they need without unnecessary hurdles.
