Newsom Unveils Bold Plan to Accelerate LA Wildfire Recovery and Boost Food Benefits for Affected Survivors

California Governor Gavin Newsom recently signed an executive order to support wildfire recovery efforts in Los Angeles. This order aims to streamline the process, making it easier for residents affected by the Palisades and Eaton fires to access essential services.

Newsom’s goal is to cut through red tape that might slow down recovery. He stated, “As Los Angeles rises, we will continue to remove the barriers that would stand in the way.” The order includes more than a dozen measures designed to help victims, such as extending deadlines for submitting paperwork for childcare, healthcare, tax relief, and welfare benefits. It also allows public officials longer timeframes for certain reports.

Additionally, the order suspends limits on administrative costs for state-funded preschool programs and Community Development Block Grants, which assist low-income workers.

In another effort to support those affected, new food benefits have been introduced. Families and individuals who lived or worked in fire-affected areas can apply for Disaster Calfresh benefits. These benefits provide a debit card for food purchases. For example, a family of four could receive a one-time payment of $975 if their monthly income is below $3,530, which is about $42,000 a year.

Newsom emphasized that his administration is focused on helping those most in need. “California’s response and recovery efforts will continue to be guided by the needs of people throughout the impacted region,” he said.

To qualify for these benefits, individuals must have lived or worked in specific ZIP codes affected by the fires. Those already enrolled in CalFresh living in these ZIP codes do not need to reapply but may receive additional funds.

Applications for these food benefits will be open from February 10 to February 14.

Matthew Rodriguez, a digital producer for CBS Los Angeles, shares updates on these developments. He has experience covering local news and often focuses on breaking stories.