Earlier this year, in response to Hurricanes Irma and Harvey, Lawline announced its decision to make two of its federal disaster relief programs free and accessible to the public.

Since then, devastating wildfires in California have upended the lives of many, ravaging homes and communities throughout the state. On October 10, 2017, President Trump approved a major disaster declaration in California, which means that federal assistance is now available to the state and local governments, to aid and assist in recovery efforts.

Under trying circumstances, navigating available means of public assistance can be confusing.  The courses Lawline has made available are beneficial to all disaster relief victims and should be viewed as an additional resource for anyone – attorney or not – who is dealing with fallout from the wildfires.   

The courses, available for free through the end of 2017, can be viewed here:

• Utilizing Government Contracts For Disaster Relief and Hazard Mitigation 2017 Update
• Federal Disaster Relief and the National Flood Insurance Program

Lawline has also compiled a list of resources that may be helpful to wildfire victims or those looking for ways to help:

• ABA Offers Legal Assistance for Wildfire Victims in Northern California
• California Disaster Unemployment Assistance
• California Office of Emergency Services: October 2017 California Wildfire Recovery Resources
• Federal Aid Programs for the State of California
• FEMA – Individual Disaster Assistance
• San Francisco Chronicle: How You Can Help North Bay Wildfire Victims
• Tax Relief for Victims of Wildfires in California
• The Sacramento Bee: A List of Resources and How You Can Help
• Union Funds for Victims of Wildfires

Lawline wishes everyone a safe and speedy recovery.