How Riot Relief Assistance Can Be Obtained

Riots, looting and arson in Los Angeles left physical devastation comparable only to that caused by natural disasters. But many caught in the midst of the riots in Southern California, and thereafter, other parts of the country, know that personal economic devastation is another tragic consequence.

As is often the case when an area is struck by “acts of God,” the federal government has stepped in to deliver at least modest financial assistance. But it’s not available to everyone.

Currently only those affected by fire in Los Angeles can receive help from one of the most sweeping government programs--disaster unemployment assistance. Those out of work because of vandalism or looting in Los Angeles, or any number of isolated incidents of fire or destruction in other parts of the country, aren’t eligible for emergency programs.

There is some aid available to victims of financial disasters, whether or not they reside in official “disaster areas.” But more aid is available where the federal government has declared a disaster. Those who live and work in Los Angeles, for example, can apply for emergency unemployment compensation if the company they own or work for was consumed by fire.

Emergency unemployment insurance pays the same benefits as regular unemployment compensation--between $40 and $230 per week in California, depending on the applicant’s income--but is available to a greater number of individuals.

Self-employed people, people unable to reach employers because of fires and people physically unable to work because of a fire-related injury can apply for emergency unemployment insurance in Los Angeles even if they wouldn’t normally be eligible for unemployment payments.

Generally, unemployment insurance programs don’t cover self-employed workers, or people who earn less than certain threshold amounts. In addition, individuals must normally have held a steady job for six months to a year in order to qualify.

Angelenos out of work for any reason other than a fire are subject to ordinary unemployment compensation rules. (Officials are weighing the merits of broadening the program to help victims of looting and vandalism, but haven’t yet, said Anita MacKenzie, a spokeswoman for the Employment Development Department in Sacramento.)

To apply for standard unemployment compensation, one must visit an EDD office or, for emergency unemployment aid, either the EDD or a Federal Emergency Management Agency disaster center. Either can be found in the government section of local phone directories or through Information.

It normally takes three to four weeks to receive the first unemployment check. Those who don’t qualify for either type of unemployment compensation may still be eligible to receive aid through a number of other federal, state and local programs.

Information on short-term housing is also available through the Info Line (800-333-9997) and through Red Cross and Salvation Army offices in Los Angeles County. But callers should realize that temporary accommodations aren’t always pleasant: These shelters cater primarily to the year-round homeless population. Those with other options may want to consider them.

Longer-term aid is available through school breakfast and lunch programs, federal food stamps and a variety of other food distribution programs sponsored by the federal government but administered on a local basis. One must visit a county welfare office (also listed in the government section of phone books) to apply.

Applicants are subject to both income and asset tests to determine their eligibility. Those who are out of work, but have substantial assets, usually will not qualify. Those who do qualify for food stamps automatically qualify as well for medical assistance through Medicaid.

Anyone turned down by all these public agencies may still be able to find help through churches and private assistance organizations, including unions and trade groups. In Los Angeles, more than 300 churches, charities and pantries are providing meals and groceries to those affected by the riots. To find a program nearby, Angelenos can call Info Line. Similar aid-referral services operate in most major cities, usually listed in the telephone directory or reachable through United Way offices.

People should contact organizations they’re already affiliated with first, but many church groups will help anyone in need. Applicants must be prepared to be both patient and tenacious, however. Assistance organizations are straining under the tremendous demand and often lack both the manpower and the financial resources to quickly provide all the help that’s needed.