March 18, 2025

LA Relief Funds: Helping Businesses and Workers Rebuild After Devastating Fires

The Los Angeles County Department of Economic Opportunity (DEO) has officially begun Phase 1 disbursement of LA relief funds to aid small businesses, nonprofits, and workers affected by the January 2025 wildfires. In partnership with the City of Los Angeles Economic and Workforce Development Department (EWDD) and third-party administrator AidKit, the LA relief funds are being distributed to those who experienced the greatest financial impact. These funds provide direct cash assistance to help rebuild and restore economic stability in the region.

Phase 1 of the LA relief funds initiative prioritizes businesses and workers who suffered significant fire-related damages. A total of $2.7 million is being disbursed, benefiting 82 small businesses, each receiving a $25,000 grant, and 324 workers, each receiving a $2,000 grant. Applications for these LA relief funds closed on March 12, with over 14,000 applications submitted. While Phase 1 supports the most severely impacted, those not selected will automatically be considered for Phase 2, which is expected to distribute an additional $15.9 million starting the week of March 31. The LA relief funds aim to provide rapid economic recovery and ensure that small businesses and employees receive the financial support they need.

Recognizing the urgency of the situation, DEO and EWDD mobilized quickly, offering extensive community outreach to ensure accessibility to the LA relief funds. Their efforts included over 20 English and Spanish webinars, 19 in-person events, and 15 train-the-trainer sessions. More than 100 staff members were deployed countywide to assist with application processing and technical support. Additionally, materials were provided in 14 threshold languages, ensuring that all eligible businesses and workers had access to vital LA relief funds. These efforts demonstrate a strong commitment to helping the community rebuild after the devastating fires.

Wildfire Recovery: How LA Relief Funds Are Supporting Businesses & Workers

The LA relief funds process is designed for efficiency, with AidKit notifying recipients and facilitating fast payments. Eligible applicants must complete an enrollment process to confirm their preferred method of receiving funds. If all required information is provided, direct deposits are processed within 2-3 business days, while workers opting for prepaid debit cards can pick them up at designated Disaster Recovery Centers (DRCs) and Impacted Worker and Family Recovery Centers. These streamlined disbursement efforts ensure that businesses and workers receive LA relief funds as quickly as possible to help cover immediate financial needs and begin rebuilding their lives.

For businesses and workers affected by fire damage, these LA relief funds provide crucial financial assistance. However, rebuilding often requires more than just financial support—it requires clearing damaged properties and making way for reconstruction. Our fire damage demolition services ensure safe and efficient removal of fire-damaged structures, helping businesses and property owners start fresh. If you need professional fire damage demolition services in Los Angeles, contact us today. Let us help you take the first step toward recovery with expert demolition solutions tailored to your needs.