Comprehensive Support for Wildfire Victims

The devastation caused by wildfires can turn lives upside down, leaving residents and business owners facing overwhelming challenges after losing their homes, businesses, vehicles, and other property.

Recognizing that wildfires cross county lines, the response to the Bridge Fire, which affected both Los Angeles and San Bernardino counties, was equally collaborative. Alongside the Bridge Fire, San Bernardino County also dealt with the Line Fire, which began on September 5, 2024. The Bridge Fire ignited just days later on September 8, rapidly expanding to engulf over 54,800 acres, while the Line Fire has burned more than 39,200 acres.

In response, the Department of Aging & Disabilities (AD) joined the Local Assistance Center (LAC), which brought together numerous organizations for a unified response to both wildfires. This collaborative effort included County departments from both Los Angeles and San Bernardino, various State of California agencies, and non-governmental organizations, providing residents with one-stop access to crucial information and resources. This initiative helped save those affected days of navigating lengthy phone calls and multiple office visits, ensuring they didn’t miss out on essential support.

Residents were provided with a range of supplies, including food, water, baby care items, and mental health counseling.

The Los Angeles County Office of Emergency Management coordinated resources for the L.A. County and worked closely with San Bernardino County, the State of California, and nonprofit organizations to facilitate a three-day event. On September 20, the Los Angeles County Fairplex in Pomona hosted the center, followed by operations at The Way World Church Hallmark Campus in San Bernardino on September 21 and September 23.

AD staff welcomed hundreds of attendees at their table, offering information about immediate and ongoing resources available to support their recovery. Team members Proserfina Tortal, Christina Raggio, Ruben Cruz, Khoa Nguyen, Clara Magana, and Silvia Avalos were on hand to assist.

If you or someone you know has been impacted by the Bridge Fire, please visit this recovery website for more information.