The recent wildfires in Los Angeles County have profoundly impacted our artistic community, with many artists facing significant challenges. In these trying times, it’s crucial to know that there are resources available to support you. Below is a curated list of organizations offering assistance to artists affected by the fires:
1. Rauschenberg Medical Emergency Grants
Administered by the New York Foundation for the Arts (NYFA), these grants provide one-time awards of up to $5,000 to artists in financial need who are facing unexpected medical, dental, or mental health emergencies. Eligible disciplines include visual arts, film/video/electronic/digital arts, and choreography. For more information and application details, visit NYFA’s website.
2. Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)
FEMA offers disaster assistance to individuals affected by the wildfires. Artists residing in declared disaster areas can apply for financial aid to cover housing, personal property losses, and other disaster-related expenses. To apply, visit DisasterAssistance.gov or call 1-800-621-3362.
3. CERF+ Emergency Relief Grants
CERF+ provides $3,000 emergency relief grants to craft artists who have experienced a recent, significant emergency or disaster. This includes assistance for those affected by natural disasters like wildfires. For eligibility criteria and application instructions, visit CERF+’s website.
4. MusiCares
MusiCares offers support to music professionals affected by the California wildfires. Services include emergency financial assistance, addiction recovery, and mental health support. For assistance, visit MusiCares’ website or email MusiCaresRelief@musicares.org.
5. National Coalition for Arts’ Preparedness & Emergency Response (NCAPER)
NCAPER provides resources to help artists and arts organizations prepare for and respond to emergencies. Their website offers a comprehensive list of emergency financial assistance programs and preparedness tools. Explore their resources at NCAPER’s website.
6. Entertainment Community Fund
Formerly known as The Actors Fund, this organization offers a range of services to entertainment professionals, including emergency financial assistance, health insurance resources, and mental health support. For more information, visit Entertainment Community Fund’s website.
Additional Resources:
- Emergency Updates and Information:
Stay informed about the latest developments and available services through local emergency management websites and real-time maps monitoring wildfire activity. For a comprehensive list of resources, refer to the California Wildfire Resources document. - Counseling and Crisis Support:
The Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health offers emergency outreach and crisis intervention services. Contact their 24/7 helpline at 800-854-7771. Additionally, the Disaster Distress Helpline provides 24/7 crisis counseling; call 1-800-985-5990 or text “TalkWithUs” to 66746.
We understand the immense challenges you’re facing and are here to support you. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to these organizations for assistance, and share this information with fellow artists who may benefit. Together, we can navigate this difficult time and work towards recovery.