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California Wildfires Relief and Resources for the Los Angeles Deaf Community

January 13, 2025

California Wildfires Relief and Resources for the Los Angeles Deaf Community

January 13, 2025
January 13, 2025

Our hearts go out to everyone affected by the devastating California wildfires, especially those feeling the emotional toll of this unprecedented crisis. We want you to know that you are not alone. 

In reply to the wildfires, ASL Now has launched a Disaster Relief Helpline specifically for Deaf and Hard of Hearing Los Angeles members seeking information in American Sign Language (ASL). This helpline connects you with the most up-to-date resources and organizations that are offering relief and support to those impacted by the wildfires. 

Along with our helpline, we’re listing essential resources to guide you during this time and to access the support you need:

ASL-Centric Resources

  1. Greater Los Angeles Agency on Deafness, Inc. (GLAD) - 2222 Laverna Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90041
  2. ASL Now Disaster Relief Helpline 
    • Call our helpline via VP (833) 682-7630 for information about what government assistance is available, how to obtain financial aid, and how to apply for FEMA assistance. You may use this helpline to have general resources explained in ASL. 
  3. Tive Technology
    • Free Video Remote Interpreting (VRI) services for LA County residents. To access these services, email them at support@tivetechnology.com.
  4. Off-The-Grid Missions 
    • Emergency hub with free, real-time, resources for those impacted by the wildfires. 
  5. California Connect  
    • For communication equipment replacement due to displacement, call via phone or VP 800-806-1191 and select Option 8. 
  6. CODIE’s Resource
  7. Disability and Disaster Hotline
  8. Sign Language Center – Safety Signs for LA Wildfire

Evacuation and Shelter Information

Evacuation Shelters

If you are in need of a safe place, here are some key evacuation shelters available to the community: 

Source: https://lacounty.gov/emergency/ 

Stayed Prepared

If you're staying in an evacuation zone or preparing to evacuate, here are some tips to help you stay safe: 

  • Test your smoke detectors: Make sure the strobe or vibrating alert system works. 
  • Check your hearing aid(s)/cochlear implant(s): Ensure they're easily accessible. 
  • Carry a pre-printed card: Helpful phrases like: 
    • “I am Deaf and I use ASL to communicate. I will need an ASL interpreter.” 
    • “I need announcements written or signed.” 
    • “I cannot hear sirens or alarms.” 
  • Keep your vital documents (ID, passport, birth certificates) in one easy-to-access place. 
  • Keep your medications in an easily accessible place. 

Source: https://elderaffairs.org/wp-content/uploads/disaster-preparedness-and-the-deaf-community-guide.pdf 

What to Pack for Evacuations

If you’re preparing to evacuate, make sure to pack: 

  • Water & non-perishable food (with utensils and a can opener) 
  • Flashlight & extra batteries 
  • First aid kit 
  • Fire extinguisher (smaller ones designed for homes and cars are available) 
  • Moist towelettes, garbage bags, toilet paper, and plastic ties for sanitation 
  • Whistle (to signal for help) 
  • Battery-operated or hand-crank radio 
  • Printed map of your area (in case GPS isn't working) 
  • Face masks (N95 or KN95 masks work best for smoke and air pollution) 
  • Batteries & chargers for your devices 
  • Several days' worth of clothing (including sturdy shoes, coats, pajamas, underwear, and socks) 
  • Blanket or sleeping bag 
  • Vital documents (ID, passport, birth certificates) 

Childcare

All YMCA locations are providing free childcare for children of first responders, essential workers, and those affected by the recent crisis, including displaced families or children unable to attend school due to closures. 

Visit YMCA Childcare  for information.

Source: https://211la.org/LA-Wildfires 

Animal Shelters 

If you need shelter for your pets, here are some animal care centers offering help for both small and large animals: 

Small Animals: 

Large Animals: 

Source: https://lacounty.gov/emergency/ 

Government and Company Resources

Government Resource and Aid

Companies Providing Aid

  • Airbnb.org – Follow this link to register for temporary housing. 
  • 211LA Wildfire Resources - Ongoing updates on the fire and organizations providing support.
  • Planet Fitness - Wifi, showers, locker rooms, outlets, etc until January 15.

Restaurants Providing Free Meals

Transportation 

  • Uber and Lyft are offering free rides to shelters and evacuation sites: 
    • Lyft: Two free rides up to $25 each. Use code: CAFIRERELIEF25. 
    • Uber: Two free rides up to $40 each. Use code: WILDFIRE25. 
  • Metro: Metro fares are free until further notice

Additional Resources

What to Donate 

If you're looking to help others, here’s a list of items in high demand: 

  • Blankets 
  • Sleeping bags 
  • Warm clothes (hoodies, sweaters, sweatpants, socks, underwear)
  • Protein bars & sustainable food  
  • Bottled water (Please note, most water supplies are contaminated) 
  • Diapers & baby food/formula 
  • Toiletries and hygiene products 
  • Monetary donations

Where to donate

Emotional Support Resources 

Please see below for resources for emotional support and mental health help: 

Stay Informed 

For the latest updates on the wildfire situation, visit this link. 

Please feel free to share this list with anyone you know who might need it. We hope this resource list helps you and others recover from the fires. Stay safe, and don’t hesitate to reach out for assistance, including friends, family, neighbors, local organizations, support groups, and helplines. 

Together, we can make sure that everyone in our community is safe and protected. 

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