Crime & Safety
FEMA Extends Housing Aid For LA Fire Survivors
According to FEMA, more than 35,000 households had received assistance through the Individuals and Households Program as of June 12.
LOS ANGELES, CA — Los Angeles fire survivors will continue receiving federal housing assistance as they rebuild after FEMA approved an extension of disaster aid requested by California officials, Gov. Gavin Newsom announced Wednesday.
Under the approval, FEMA extended the Individuals and Households Program housing assistance period for eligible homeowners through July 9, 2027. The agency also approved a three-month extension of assistance for eligible renters through Oct. 9 2026, according to the governor's office.
State officials said the extension follows months of advocacy by Newsom, members of California's congressional delegation, local elected officials and community organizations.
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According to FEMA, more than 35,000 households had received assistance through the Individuals and Households Program as of June 12, with more than $177 million awarded to eligible survivors.
Federal officials cited ongoing challenges facing survivors, including unresolved insurance claims, underinsurance issues, housing shortages, contractor shortages and rebuilding delays.
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"Recovery doesn't end when the headlines fade," Newsom said in a statement. "Thousands of Los Angeles families are still working to rebuild their homes and their lives, and this extension will help ensure survivors continue receiving the support they need during this critical phase of recovery."
The governor's office said California requested a 12-month extension for both homeowners and renters. FEMA approved the full extension for homeowners but granted a three-month extension for renters.
State officials said California has issued more than two dozen executive orders aimed at accelerating recovery efforts following the fires and has made more than $100 million available through the CalAssist Mortgage Fund to assist affected homeowners.
The governor's office said California will continue working with FEMA, local governments and community organizations to support long-term recovery efforts in communities affected by the fires.
