On behalf of everyone at Permit Place, we want to extend our deepest sympathies to those affected by the devastating wildfires in Southern California. We are headquartered in Sherman Oaks and fully appreciate the fear and uncertainty those in the community are experiencing. Our hearts are with you, your families, and your communities during this incredibly challenging time.
We recognize the immense hardships that come with natural disasters like these, such as losing homes, businesses, and places of comfort, as well as facing the uncertainty of recovery. Please know that you are not alone. We are here to stand with you and to provide support.
Below, you will find a list of resources that may help you and your loved ones navigate this crisis. From immediate shelter to financial aid and emotional support, these organizations are ready to assist.
Emergency Relief and Recovery Resources
- Red Cross Shelters: www.redcross.org/get-help/disaster-relief-and-recovery/find-an-open-shelter.html.
- Cal OES (California Office of Emergency Services): Evacuation orders and local emergency services at www.caloes.ca.gov.
- FEMA Assistance: Apply for federal disaster aid at www.disasterassistance.gov or call 1-800-621-3362.
- Disaster Distress Helpline: Call 1-800-985-5990 or text “TalkWithUs” to 66746 for immediate emotional support.
- Feeding America: Locate a food bank near you at www.feedingamerica.org/find-your-local-foodbank.
- California HOPE Program: Free crisis counseling available at www.calhope.org or call 1-833-317-HOPE (4673).
- ASPCA Disaster Response: www.aspca.org.
- California Department of Insurance Wildfire Resource Center: Assistance with insurance claims, policy reviews, and legal questions related to wildfire damage. Visit: www.insurance.ca.gov/. Helpline: 1-800-927-4357.
Small Businesses Resources
- SBA Disaster Assistance Loans: The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) provides low-interest loans to businesses and nonprofits affected by natural disasters. Apply online: www.sba.gov/funding-programs/disaster-assistance. Contact the SBA Customer Service Center: 1-800-659-2955 or email [email protected].
- California IBank Disaster Relief Loan Guarantee Program: Offers loan guarantees of up to 95% for small businesses unable to access traditional financing. www.ibank.ca.gov/small-business/disaster-relief/.
- California Rebuilding Fund: Supports small businesses recovering from disasters with flexible, affordable loans. www.connect2capital.com/p/californiarebuildingfund/
- Small Business Legal Assistance: Local Small Business Development Centers (SBDCs) and organizations like California Lawyers for the Arts offer free legal advice for wildfire-related business issues. Find an SBDC near you: americassbdc.org
- FEMA Small Business Resources: Guides for rebuilding and adapting your business post-disaster. Visit: www.fema.gov/assistance/individual/small-business.
- California Small Business Resources for Disaster Recovery: Information on grants, loans, and recovery strategies tailored for California small businesses. Visit: business.ca.gov
- SCORE Wildfire Recovery Mentorship: Free, expert mentoring for businesses navigating disaster recovery. Visit www.score.org
- Local Chambers of Commerce: Many chambers provide grants, guidance, and connections to resources for small businesses during wildfire recovery.
- Google’s Crisis Response for Small Businesses: Temporary advertising credits, tools, and resources to help businesses maintain online visibility. Visit www.google.com/crisisresponse.
- Shopify Disaster Assistance Program: Provides financial relief and tools for e-commerce businesses affected by natural disasters. Learn more: hwww.shopify.com.
If you need additional guidance, reach out to your local Small Business Development Center (SBDC) or the California Office of the Small Business Advocate (CalOSBA) at business.ca.gov.
Your Friends,
The Permit Place Team