California wildfire victims are eligible for a one-time $770 payment so they can “quickly purchase” things they might need, President Joe Biden announced Tuesday.
The federal assistance, offered through a Federal Emergency Management Agency program, is designed to cover the cost of essential items like water, formula, gasoline and prescription drugs.
The Serious Needs Assistance Program is one of a number of FEMA programs currently in place to offer Californians relief as coordinated wildfire response efforts continue. Those impacted by the wildfires may be eligible to receive assistance from more than one FEMA program, an agency spokesperson shared with USA TODAY on Tuesday.
“And I want to be clear: We’re not waiting until those fires are over to be — to start helping the victims. We’re getting them help right now, as you all know,” Biden said. “So far, nearly 6,000 survivors have registered to do just that and $5.1 million has gone out.”
‘The worst California fire I’ve seen’: How Eaton Fire evacuees were forced to leave it all
President Joe Biden speaks during a Monday briefing about the federal response to the wildfires that have ravaged Los Angeles County.
Scores of firefighters, including hundreds of prison inmates, are working around the clock to extinguish the deadly fires, which have resulted in the deaths of at least 24 people and has left communities across Los Angeles County in ruins.
Live Wednesday updates: Santa Ana winds threaten progress on Southern California wildfires
Here’s what to know about the $770 FEMA payment, including how to apply.
How to apply for FEMA assistance
FEMA may be able to cover certain costs, including the purchase of essential items, temporary housing, replacement of personal effects or basic repairs, if your home was impacted by the fires, according to a Sunday news release.
But, FEMA assistance was designed to help those who do not have insurance or whose insurance policies do not cover basic needs. Those with insurance should file a claim as soon as possible and be ready to provide information related to the coverage plan when applying for FEMA assistance.
You can apply for FEMA assistance online by calling the FEMA Helpline at 1-800-621-3362, or through the FEMA app. Spanish speakers can apply for FEMA assistance here.
Track wildfires burning across the Los Angeles area
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: FEMA giving $770 to California wildfire victims: Here is how to apply