#USA #Los Angeles #disaster relief #Better Angels #Imagine LA

Launching the LA Disaster Relief Navigator

On February 7, 2025, Better Angels and Imagine LA introduced the LA Disaster Relief Navigator, an innovative online tool specifically designed to aid individuals affected by the recent wildfires in Los Angeles. This initiative serves as a vital resource for those struggling with the aftermath of natural disasters, providing critical access to numerous support systems and resources available to them.

Better Angels, an organization focused on tackling the homelessness crisis in Los Angeles, collaborated closely with key partners including the Mayor's Fund for Los Angeles, the office of Mayor Bass, and the American Red Cross to create this comprehensive support tool. The Navigator allows users to navigate various aspects of disaster relief, from applying for federal, state, and local assistance to securing temporary and permanent housing solutions. It also offers personalized recovery action plans tailored to each individual's circumstances.

A Human-Centric Approach to Disaster Relief

Adam Miller, co-founder and CEO of Better Angels, emphasized the organization's commitment to mobilizing resources for wildfire relief. He stated, "We are especially concerned for individuals and families that were already in vulnerable positions before the disaster and want to ensure they receive appropriate support during the recovery process."

Jill Bauman, founder and CEO of Imagine LA, echoed these sentiments, highlighting the overwhelming nature of the disaster for individuals who have lost their homes, saying, "This solution places the human experience at its center by providing a clear and actionable plan for recovery."

Immediate Initiatives Supporting Fire Victims

The introduction of the LA Disaster Relief Navigator is just one of the initiatives Better Angels has implemented to assist wildfire victims. Other key programs include:

Emergency Assistance Fund (EAF)

Just six days after the fires began, Better Angels launched the EAF aimed at supporting economically vulnerable families. This fund offers immediate relief for basic necessities such as food, clothing, and medication. Applications are reviewed daily by Better Angels and funds are distributed swiftly into the accounts of those in need. Better Angels secured a substantial grant from the LA Tech Community Cares Fund to bolster the EAF program further.

Resource Days

Better Angels hosts resource days across Los Angeles County, delivering crucial items like food, water, hygiene products, and mental health services to those experiencing homelessness and crises. Upcoming events are planned in various high-impact zones to continue providing assistance to those affected by the wildfires.

HireMy Initiative

Recognizing the urgent need for employment among those who lost their jobs, particularly domestic workers, Better Angels created the HireMy network. This initiative connects trained domestic workers with families needing their services post-disaster to help them regain financial stability.

Donation Center Support

Better Angels is partnering with social influencer Kiley Coleman to support the Girltalk Donation Center, which provides long-term aid by offering essential items at no cost to fire victims. This donation center simulates a retail experience, distributing goods donated by the LA community.

About Better Angels and Imagine LA

Better Angels is committed to addressing homelessness by leveraging community strength and innovative solutions across five critical need areas: prevention, technology, services, shelter, and housing. Conversely, Imagine LA specializes in helping families escape homelessness and generational poverty by maximizing public benefits.

For those interested in supporting these initiatives, donations can be made through Better Angels' website at betterangels.la/wildfire-response. Together, these organizations are leading the charge to ensure that every individual impacted by the wildfires receives the support they desperately need, paving the way for long-term recovery and resilience in the community.