Disaster Relief
Disasters can happen unexpectedly and often leave lasting challenges for individuals, congregations, and communities. In response to the devastating Los Angeles wildfires and their widespread impact, the Southwest California Synod established the Disaster Relief Coordinator role to help congregations be better prepared, respond with care, and accompany communities through recovery. This role was made possible through the generous support of Lutheran Disaster Response.
The Disaster Relief Coordinator provides training, coordinates relief efforts, shares practical resources, and builds partnerships with Lutheran Disaster Response and local organizations. This ministry is rooted in accompaniment, walking alongside those who are suffering and strengthening the capacity of our churches to respond with hope, compassion, and resilience.
Los Angeles Fire Recovery Grant
The Southwest California Synod is offering a Los Angeles Fire Recovery Grant to support ELCA congregations, partner ministries, and individuals who were impacted by recent wildfires. Any ELCA Congregational Council officer or pastor may submit an application. Eligible applicants can use the button below to begin the application process. For questions, our Disaster Relief Coordinator’s contact information can be found here.
Upcoming Events and Workshops
Past Events and Workshops
Events from Community Partners
Resources to Download
Lutheran Disaster Response Congregational Disaster Preparedness Guide
Safety, Recovery and Hope after Disaster: Helping Communities and Families Recover
Resources for Los Angeles Wildfire Disaster Relief:
Los Angeles County Relief Fund
This portal serves as a one-stop resource to connect with trusted organizations that are providing crucial relief and support to those affected by the LA Wildfires. This website contains information on funds focused on supporting first responders, offering housing assistance, providing relief for small businesses and workers, and removing barriers for students and communities.
Los Angeles Region Community Recovery Organization
This website page contains links to resources for the 2025 LA Fires.
LA County Emergency Resources for Workers and Businesses
The LA Department of Economic Opportunity (DEO) leads economic resiliency and recovery efforts for the County of Los Angeles. This website contains information on disaster recovery centers, business recovery centers, impacted family and worker centers, permit one-stops, as well as upcoming webinars and events.
In the city of Los Angeles, Pacific Palisades and surrounding communities are experiencing devastating impacts from the destructive and deadly Palisades Fire. To assist residents in finding the help and support they need now and in the long recovery period ahead, we have put together this information in response to frequently asked questions, including referrals to key resources offered by both the County and city of Los Angeles.
The LA Disaster Relief Navigator is here to help you quickly create a personalized action plan that contains the critical financial and wellness resources available to you.
Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health
This website contains mental health resources for those impacted by the wildfire.
