As the wildfires continue to profoundly affect communities in the Los Angeles area, Dialysis Patient Citizens extends its heartfelt support to all who are impacted by this devastating crisis. Thousands of structures have been affected, over 200,000 residents have been displaced, and to date, at least 27 people have lost their lives. Government officials, including Governor Newsom, have issued emergency declarations as the fires intensified, allowing for rapid deployment of resources to protect lives, property, and critical infrastructure. While some of you may not live in the immediate area of the wildfires, we understand that many of you may work, travel, or have loved ones affected by this disaster. Please know that DPC values each of you and wants to ensure you are safe and well.
If you or someone you know has been displaced or impacted by the wildfires, please know that there is help available. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact your social worker at your dialysis center. For additional local resources that are specific to kidney patients and their families, please visit:
Kidney Community Emergency Response Coalition: KCER
Patient resources guide: Southern California Wildfires | American Kidney Fund
Additionally, the American Kidney Fund has made emergency grants of $250 available in select counties in Southern California. These disaster relief grants help low-income patients replace lost medications and kidney-friendly foods, pay for temporary housing and transportation to treatment, and replace clothing and personal essentials lost due to the natural disaster or the need to evacuate with little to no notice. Learn more: Disaster Relief Grant Program | American Kidney Fund
For critical access to food assistance, water, shelter, and mental health support, ABC7 is keeping an updated list of resources to help impacted communities. Southern California residents can also call 211 for shelter, social and health services information.
To access real-time updates on emergency notifications, shelter information, and recovery resources, check out: https://lacounty.gov/emergency/
If you are experiencing an unmet need on the ground, please feel free to contact DPC, and we will do our best to connect you with the appropriate resources. We are all in this together!
