Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health (LACDMH) staff have been on the ground from the very first morning of the wildfires on Jan. 8 providing mental health support and in the recovery efforts at the Disaster Recovery Centers, evacuation centers and repopulation centers in Altadena, Pacific Palisades, Pasadena, Westwood and Malibu.
County staff worked alongside the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), State agencies, County departments, City departments and nonprofits to provide relief to people who lost anything and/or everything in the devastating fires.
LACDMH had more than 250 clinicians, community health workers, clinical pharmacists and other staff provide immediate and long-term recovery. Due to how the fires spread, people had very little notice before evacuation, so they were often missing medications, clothing and personal items. Staff provided these essential items, immediate mental health support and long-term resources.
At the disaster recovery centers, LACDMH provided counseling to people reliving some of the worst days of their lives. They also spoke with the media to share available information about the recovery centers, including the wide list of resources available. Through the teamwork of Federal, State, County and local resources, people could walk into a disaster recovery center and walk out with a temporary driver’s license, an expedited passport, a birth certificate, a college diploma, and much more.
LACDMH Director Dr. Lisa H. Wong and the rest of the Department express their deepest sympathy and support to all those impacted by the wildfires in Los Angeles County. As we navigate through this challenging time together, it’s important to remember that recovery isn’t just about rebuilding physical spaces but also about healing emotionally. The Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health is here to assist and provide support during this difficult time through our 24/7 Help Line at (800) 854-7771. Residents can also find mental health resources through dmh.lacounty.gov and the disaster mental health resources page.
