As fires impact our community, we’re reminded of the importance of caring for ourselves and those around us. Whether it’s practicing self-care to maintain your well-being or supporting those affected, our collective efforts matter. JQ remains committed to providing resources, from recovery aid to mental health support. Our helpline and support groups are here for you, offering a safe-conscious space to connect and heal.
Self Care
The term “self-care” is thrown around often, but its true importance lies in regularly addressing your physical, emotional, and mental health. Self-care isn’t just a trend; it’s a crucial practice for reducing stress, improving resilience, and enhancing overall well-being. While it may seem like a buzzword, consistently engaging in meaningful self-care activities can have lasting positive effects on your life. Prioritizing your needs helps prevent burnout and promotes a healthier balance.
For more tips, visit Therapist Aid’s Self-Care Tips.
Recovery
Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority – List of resources available for those affected by LA fires
- 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.
- The local hotel association is maintaining a list of hotels in and around L.A. with available space, including whether and what kind of discounts they’re offering to fire victims and evacuees
- AQI Resources
- A Guide to AQI
- Check the AQI: AIRNow, signing up for EnviroFlash, smoke outlook or checking your local media.
- The associated structure debris within the fire footprint includes Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs). VOCs include a variety of chemicals, some of which may have short- and long-term adverse health effects. If you are returning to your home, consider wearing a mask or other PPE to minimize exposure.
FEMA Assistance is available for residents impacted by LA County wildfires. Three ways to Apply:
- Online at DisasterAssistance.gov – If you have access to the internet and your electronic devices have power, applying online is easiest, fastest, and most convenient.
- On the FEMA App for mobile devices
- The FEMA Helpline at 1-800-621-3362 – Calls are accepted every day from 4 a.m. to 10 p.m. PST. Help is available in most languages. If you use a relay service such as video relay, captioned telephone, or other service, give FEMA the number for that service.
Volunteer and Donation Opportunities
- Mutual Aid LA Network (MALAN) offers a list of organizations that are accepting and offering donations.
- California Fire Foundation: The California Fire Foundation, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, provides critical support to surviving families of fallen firefighters, firefighters, and the communities they serve.
- Friends in Deed: a nonprofit providing services for the homeless, as it opens its Bad Weather Shelter amid the fires.
