Full Notification

Following a bipartisan effort led by Congressman Mike Thompson, Congressman John Garamendi and others, Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) assistance is available to qualifying individuals and business owners affected by the Ranch and River Fires.
 
“We are heartened and grateful that State and Federal officials have come together to establish that the well-being and recovery of Lake County and our residents is a national priority,” states Carol J. Huchingson, County Administrative Officer.  “With more than half of our landmass having burned since 2012, the cumulative effect upon Lake County residents has been devastating.  The availability FEMA assistance for Ranch and River Fire survivors is a very positive step.”
 
To serve the broadest array of individuals affected by the Mendocino Complex fires, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has established a Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) in Upper Lake:
Habematolel Pomo of Upper Lake Community Center
9460 Main Street
Upper Lake, CA  95485
 
The DRC is open daily from 9:00am-7:00pm, and Mendocino Complex survivors who visit the center are encouraged to bring the following information:

• Social Security number (one per household)
• Address of the damaged home or apartment
• Description of the damage
• Information about insurance coverage
• Telephone number
• Mailing address
• Bank account and routing numbers for direct deposit of funds

 
Assistance is available from the State of California and federal government to encourage recovery, and may include grants for:

• Rental assistance
• Home repairs and rebuilding
• Personal disaster-related expenses
• Temporary emergency housing

 
Personnel at the DRC can also provide information regarding low interest disaster loans available from the U.S. Small Business Administration.
 
Ranch and River Fire survivors may also apply for assistance online, or by phone:

• http://www.disasterassistance.gov/
• 800-621-3362 (including users of 711 or Video Relay Service)
• 800-462-7585 (TTY)

 
These phone numbers are toll free, and available 7:00am-10:00pm, every day.
 
“If you were impacted by the Ranch or River Fires, I would encourage you to reach out to FEMA,” shares Huchingson.  “There are a variety of supports available, and reviewing the resources at disasterassistance.gov and discussing your situation with the representatives at the DRC will ensure you receive the assistance that best fits your needs.”