California Governor Aids Childcare Workers After Los Angeles Wildfires

Los Angeles, California – Governor Gavin Newsom issued an executive order on Tuesday aimed at assisting childcare providers impacted by the recent wildfires in Los Angeles. The order requires the Department of Social Services and California Employment Development Department to inform childcare facilities that remain closed about their eligibility for Disaster Unemployment Assistance.

During the announcement, Newsom emphasized the urgency of supporting childcare providers, noting, “As California begins to recover from the devastating Los Angeles wildfires, we are working to make sure that childcare providers are aware of the federal and state supports available to them if they still are unable to work due to the fires.” The order follows extensive damage from wildfires that forced many providers to close their facilities.

The initiative is particularly critical since approximately 24 members from the Child Care Providers United union lost their homes in the disaster. Moreover, at least 30 childcare facilities sustained severe damage that has hindered their reopening efforts. First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom remarked, “Caregiving isn’t just a service—it’s the infrastructure we all need to go to work — making it a vital piece of the workforce equation.”

Last week, an emergency relief package providing 30 days of pay for childcare providers came to an end without any renewal. State Sen. Sasha Renée Pérez expressed concerns, stating, “Thirty days simply isn’t enough time for anyone to recover. We are still navigating this disaster.” In addition, local leaders have been advocating for more comprehensive government assistance, as many caregivers are struggling to recover both economically and personally.

Residents affected by the wildfires can seek support through various state resources, including the California Wildfire website. This platform provides information on housing, individual assistance, and personal document replacement for those in need.

Matthew Rodriguez, a digital producer for CBS Los Angeles, reported on the executive order and its implications for childcare providers. Rodriguez previously worked for local news outlets and covers breaking news and crime extensively.

In a related effort, Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass initiated a separate order to accelerate the recovery of childcare centers and schools affected by the fires. This order aims to simplify the permitting process for temporary relocations, allowing childcare and educational institutions to better serve displaced families.

“At least 14 schools in L.A. were affected,” said a spokesperson for the mayor’s office, noting that five of those were preschools. Additionally, as of last week, more than 280 childcare facilities were reported to be closed due to fire damage, although the future of many centers remains uncertain.

Californians who sustained losses are encouraged to apply for disaster assistance to help with the recovery process as the state grapples with the ongoing impacts of the wildfires.