Wildfire Assistance

Overview

Wildfires have become an increasingly devastating part of life in the Sierra Nevada. When disaster strikes, the immediate needs are overwhelming—and the road to recovery can stretch for years. Casa Oso Foundation is committed to standing with wildfire-affected families and communities every step of the way.

What We Provide

Emergency Relief

When a wildfire emergency occurs, we mobilize quickly to provide:

• Emergency supply kits – food, water, clothing, and hygiene essentials
• Evacuation support – assistance with transportation and temporary lodging
• Financial assistance – emergency grants to help cover immediate expenses
• Information and referrals – connecting survivors with FEMA, Red Cross, and other resources

Recovery Support

After the immediate crisis, the long road of recovery begins:

• Case management – a dedicated advocate to help navigate the recovery process
• Debris removal assistance – connecting survivors with cleanup resources
• Mental health referrals – access to trauma-informed counseling services
• Document recovery – assistance replacing lost identification and records

Rebuilding Assistance

For those facing the daunting task of rebuilding:

• Contractor referrals – vetted, trustworthy local contractors
• Financial literacy resources – understanding insurance claims and financial options
• Community rebuilding projects – volunteer work parties to assist low-income homeowners
• Advocacy – working with local governments for expedited permitting and relief programs

Who We Serve

We serve any Sierra Nevada resident affected by wildfire, with priority given to:

• Low-income households
• Elderly and disabled individuals
• Families with young children
• Uninsured or underinsured homeowners and renters
• Mobile home and manufactured housing residents

The Wildfire Reality

The Sierra Nevada has seen a dramatic increase in wildfire frequency and intensity in recent decades. Communities from the Southern Sierra to the Northern foothills have experienced catastrophic fires that have destroyed thousands of homes and displaced tens of thousands of residents.

Low-income residents face the greatest barriers to recovery: they often lack insurance, have fewer savings to fall back on, and have fewer options for temporary housing. Casa Oso Foundation works to close this gap and ensure that recovery isn’t reserved only for those with resources.

Get Help

If you or someone you know has been affected by wildfire, please reach out to us. We are here to help.