City opens assistance centers in response to storms

As part of ongoing recovery efforts for residents impacted by recent heavy storms, the city of Los Angeles on Thursday opened the first of three one-day local assistance centers.

Each center will be a onestop shopwhere Angelenos can ask questions and obtain information on recovery services and assistance available from government agencies and nonprofits, according to the city's Emergency Management Department.

“Our recovery began the second the storm started,” Mayor Karen Bass said. “I hope Angelenos join us in getting the word out about these centers so that Angelenos are aware about this important opportunity for assistance.”

The locations of the final two centers are as follows:

• Today, noon-8 p.m., South Los Angeles Sports Activity Center, 7020 S. Figueroa St.

• Sunday, 11 a.m.-7p.m., Pan Pacific Senior Activity Center, 141 S. Gardner St.

City officials also are encouraging residents impacted by the powerful storms that occurred in early February to fill out the L.A. County's damage assessment survey.

Completing this online survey will help the county collect information on estimated business or homeowner repair costs from early February storm damage.

The data will be used to determine if cumulative damages are enough to qualify the area for stateor federal-funded disaster assistance.

This form does not guarantee eligibility and is not an application for assistance.

In the immediate aftermath of a disaster, the American Red Cross also helps to meet the urgent needs of those affected and focuses on providing safe shelter, food, emotional support, first aid and health services.

The Red Cross also plays a critical role in helping families and communities recover in the weeks and months after a disaster.

Residents affected by this month's rain event and in need of Red Cross disaster assistance can go to RedCross.org/Get-Help.