San Diego County has experienced record-breaking rainfall and flooding, and it is important to be prepared for the next storm. Below, you will find up-to-date resources that can help you prepare for future flooding and extreme weather events, as well as information on where you can go for help if you experienced any property damage from rain or floods. (updated Jan. 2024)

Local Assistance Center

The County of San Diego has opened a temporary center for people who have been impacted by the storm and flooding across the county at the Spring Valley Library, located at 836 Kempton St, Spring Valley, CA 92977. This walk-in resource center will be open 10am to 7pm Monday through Wednesday, and will include:

• More than a dozen County departments providing resources on flood recovery
• Representatives from various state assistance programs, like MediCal, CalFresh, and CalWORKs
• Representatives from state agencies including the DMV, Contractors State License Board, and Department of Insurance
• Relief from organizations including The American Red Cross, San Diego Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster, and San Diego Gas and Electric

Click here to read the County’s full press release on the center.

San Diego Emergency Alert System

To receive the most updated emergency information as the next round of rain hits the forecast, visit the Alert San Diego website and download the SD Emergency app. These programs are maintained by the County of San Diego and are updated continuously with the most current and relevant information. Click here to visit the Alert San Diego website.

2-1-1 San Diego Flood Recovery Resources

211 San Diego is a local nonprofit organization whose entire job is to connect San Diegans to valuable community, health, and disaster resources. They are available by phone 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and they maintain an expansive and updated database of available services. You can click here to visit their website and browse resources, or call 2-1-1 to speak to a real person on their resource hotline.

 MTS Service Alerts & Detours

Many MTS bus and trolley routes are experiencing disruptions in service due to the weather. To view current transit alerts and detours, you can click here to visit the MTS website and check if your route is disrupted.

Storm Damage Reporting

 If you are a resident of San Diego County and experienced damage to your property due to the flooding from the recent storms, you can report that damage to the County through an online survey, which will assist the County in requesting state and federal relief aid. This voluntary form does not guarantee that you will receive any disaster relief assistance, nor is it a substitute for filing a claim with your insurance, but it is a great help to County staff as they move through the process of requesting disaster aid for residents. Click here to access the survey.

Legal Aid Society of San Diego

The Legal Aid Society of San Diego has created a helpful document for tenants and landlords who may have experienced property damage due to flooding. If you have questions about any damage to your rental property, click here to view the resources and information compiled by the Legal Aid Society.

Flood Recovery Resources (OC)

• Orange County Disaster Assistance Centers (DACs)
• Description:
  Orange County opens Disaster Assistance Centers following major storms or flooding events to provide in-person help. These centers typically include:
  • Representatives from County agencies (Social Services, Health Care Agency)
  • Representatives from State programs (CalFresh, Medi-Cal, CalWORKs)

Assistance from organizations like the American Red Cross
 Residents can check OC Emergency Management for current locations and hours.

Emergency Alerts (OC)

• AlertOC Emergency Notification System
• Website: https://member.everbridge.net/453003085613900/login
• Description:
  AlertOC is Orange County’s mass notification system that provides real-time alerts for emergencies including flooding, evacuations, and severe weather. Residents can sign up to receive alerts by phone, text, or email.

2-1-1 Flood Recovery Resources

• 2-1-1 Orange County (211OC)
• Website: https://www.211oc.org/
• Phone: Dial 2-1-1
• Description:
  211OC is a 24/7 nonprofit hotline connecting residents to disaster recovery resources, including housing assistance, food support, financial aid, and health services

Sandbags Available in Your Area (OC)

Residents can obtain sandbags from local cities and fire stations. Availability varies by city, but common locations include:

• City of Irvine Sandbag Stations
• City of Anaheim Public Works Yard
• City of Santa Ana Maintenance Yards
• OC Fire Authority Stations (select locations)

Check your city’s website for updated sandbag and pickup locations before visiting

Public Transit Alerts (OC)

• Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA) Service Alerts
• Website: https://octa.net/
• Description:
  OCTA provides real-time updates on bus route disruptions, detours, and delays caused by storms or flooding.

Storm Damage Reporting (OC)

• Orange County residents who experience property damage from storms or flooding can report impacts through OC Public Works or state damage assessment tools. These reports help officials request state and federal disaster assistance.
  (Note: This does not replace insurance claims.)
• OC Public Works – Storm Reporting / Service Requests
• Link: Report storm damage or issues
• Phone (during storms): (714) 955-0333

City Level Storm Recovery (OC)

• Many Orange County cities maintain centralized emergency pages with information on temporary shelters, road closures, power outages, and debris cleanup.
• Residents should check their local city website for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
  
  

Legal Assistance (OC)

• Community Legal Aid SoCal
• Website: https://www.communitylegalsocal.org/
• Description:
  Provides free legal assistance to eligible residents, including:
  • Tenant/landlord disputes after storm damage
  • Housing rights and habitability issues
  • Insurance and disaster-related legal questions

 Volunteer & Relief Organizations (OC)

• American Red Cross – Orange County Chapter
• Orange County Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (VOAD)
• Description:
  Provide emergency shelter, supplies, and recovery assistance following disasters.

Bills can add up fast, especially on top of other monthly expenses. If you need assistance paying your gas, electric, water, or phone bill, see the resources below. (updated Nov. 2023)

SDCWA: Low-Income Household Water Assistance Program

San Diego County and Orange County both administer a federal program called the Low-Income Household Water Assistance Program that will pay up to $2,000 in water or wastewater bills for qualified, low-income households (including renters). Click here for more information.

SDG&E: Help With Your Residential Energy Bills

The California Alternate Rates for Energy (CARE) Program could help eligible residents save money on their monthly electricity and gas bills. You may qualify if you are receiving public assistance (CalFresh, Medi-Cal, WIC, SSI, etc.), have recently lost your job, or are receiving unemployment benefits. For more information and to determine your eligibility for the program, click here.

SCE: Help With Your Residential Energy Bills (OC)

The California Alternate Rates for Energy (CARE) Program could help eligible residents save money on their monthly electricity and gas bills. You may qualify if you are receiving public assistance (CalFresh, Medi-Cal, WIC, SSI, etc.), have recently lost your job, or are receiving unemployment benefits. For more information and to determine your eligibility for the program, click here

CPUC: Internet and Phone Bill Assistance Programs

The California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) offers a variety of programs to help residents save on their phone and internet bills, in addition to other utilities. To browse a full list of the utility assistance programs offered by the CPUC, including appliances, energy, natural gas, and water, click here

I understand how difficult it can be to find support for your family when you need it most. Fortunately, there are many city, county, and state resources available for families to ensure that everyone is fed, safe, and cared for. Keep reading to browse the available programs and resources in your city. (updated Nov. 2023)

CalKIDS

901 P St, Ste 313B, Sacramento, CA 95814 | 1-888-445-2377

The California Kids Investment and Development Savings Program (CalKIDS) is available to help California’s children start saving early for college. To be eligible, your child must be born in California on or after July 1, 2022 or be an eligible low-income student in California’s public school system grades 1-12. Through this program, each eligible child will receive a starting deposit into a CalKIDS account that can be used to help pay for post-high school education. Click here to visit the CalKIDS website.

San Diego County Department of Child Support Services

3666 Kearny Villa Rd, San Diego, CA 92123 | 866-901-3212

The Department of Child Support Services is San Diego County’s one-stop shop for child support needs and family resources. They provide resources for justice-involved families, resources to fight food insecurity, and fun, educational programming for families. Click here to visit their website.

Orange County Department of Child Support Services

Website: https://css.ocgov.com/

Phone: (866) 901-3212

The Orange County Department of Child Support Services provides assistance with establishing, modifying, and enforcing child support orders. Services include payment processing, parent location services, and support for families navigating the child support system.

 Orange County Department of Education – Youth & Family Programs

Website: https://ocde.us/

The Orange County Department of Education supports programs that promote student success, family engagement, and youth development. Resources include after-school programs, early childhood education, and support services for families across Orange County.

 Children’s Home Society of California (Orange County)

Website: https://www.chs-ca.org/

The Children’s Home Society of California (Orange County) Provides childcare referrals, financial assistance programs, and parent education services to help families access affordable, quality childcare.

Orange County Family Justice Center Foundation

Website: https://www.ocfjcfoundation.org/

Orange County Family Justice Center Foundation Provides comprehensive support for families experiencing domestic violence or crisis situations, including counseling, legal aid, and child-focused services designed to promote safety and stability

We are amid a housing affordability crisis, and I know that many people are struggling to find housing they can afford on top of the cost of bills and daily life. I have compiled several local resources that may be helpful for renters and people struggling with housing. (updated Nov. 2023)

Families Forward

Website: https://www.families-forward.org/

Families Forward provides assistance to individuals and families experiencing or at risk of homelessness, including rental assistance, housing navigation, food support, and financial education programs.

CSA San Diego County

327 Van Houten Ave, El Cajon, CA 92020 | 619-444-5700 | outreach@c4sa.org

CSA San Diego is a local nonprofit that advocates for fair housing opportunities for all people, and can assist with mediating landlord/tenant issues for all residents across San Diego County. Click here to visit their website.

Catholic Charities of Orange County

Website: https://www.ccoc.org/

Catholic Charities of Orange County provides emergency rental assistance, food programs, and supportive services to help individuals and families maintain stable housing.

City Affordable Housing Programs (OC)

Many Orange County cities offer affordable housing programs and resources for residents. These programs may include rental assistance, affordable housing developments, and housing rehabilitation services. Residents are encouraged to visit their city’s housing or community development department website for information on local programs and eligibility requirements.

Orange County Housing Authority

Website: https://www.ochousing.org/

The Orange County Housing Authority administers rental assistance programs including the Housing Choice Voucher (Section 8) program and works with local jurisdictions to provide affordable housing opportunities.

 City Affordable Housing Programs (SD)

Click on the name of your city to view specific affordable housing programs in your area. Additionally, the cities of Coronado, Del Mar, and Solana Beach are also served by the Housing Authority of the County of San Diego, who administers the Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher program. Below this entry, you will find a list of Housing Authorities serving the cities of Oceanside and Vista.

• Oceanside
• Vista

Resources for Seniors

For Californians age 65 and older, it can be difficult to navigate all the resources available in your city, county, or state. Please refer below for some resources and services designed specifically for California’s senior population. (updated Nov. 2023)

GENERAL SERVICES

California Department of Aging Webpage

This page includes a directory of COVID-19 related resources for older adults, family, and caregivers. To access, please click here.

2-1-1 Services

211 San Diego is a local nonprofit organization whose entire job is to connect San Diegans to valuable community, health, and disaster resources. They are available by phone 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and they maintain an expansive and updated database of available services. You can click here to visit their website, or dial 2-1-1 to connect with a real person on their resource hotline.

2-1-1 Orange County serves the same purpose. Their website is https://www.211oc.org/ or dial 2-1-1 to connect with a real person on their resource hotline.

COUNTY SERVICES

Orange County Housing Authority

Administers Section 8 and rental assistance programs for eligible residents. https://www.ochousing.org/

County Aging & Independence Services

The County of San Diego’s Aging & Independence Services are a one-stop shop for crucial County-level resources for older adults, people with disabilities, and their family members and caretakers. You can click here to browse their programs and services on the County’s website, or call their call center at 800-339-4661.

The Orange County Office on Aging also provides information and assistance for older adults, caregivers, and individuals with disabilities. Services include referrals for housing, transportation, meals, healthcare, legal aid, and long-term care support. Their website is https://www.ocgov.com/residents/health/care-seniors-disabled, or you can call their facility at 800-510-2020

Senior Nutrition Centers

The County of San Diego Health and Human Services Agency maintains a list of community organizations serving nutritious meals available to seniors. These services are available for a suggested donation, but no senior age 60+ will be turned away if they are unable to donate. For a list of county-wide senior dining sites, click here.

In Orange County, Age Well Senior Services provides Meals on Wheels, congregate meals, transportation, care management, and wellness programs to help older adults remain independent and supported in their homes and communities. Visit their website https://agewellseniorservices.org/ or call them at 949-855-8033

Jewish Family Service Meal Delivery (SD)

The Loonin Family Kitchen can have a Meals on Wheels or Foodmobile driver deliver directly to your door. This service is also available for adults under 60 years of age with a disability that prevents them from being able to leave the home. Please call 858-637-3210 or visit the organization’s website by clicking here.

OC Fire Authority / Emergency Management Resources

Provides wildfire, flood, and disaster response services for coastal South OC communities. https://www.ocfa.org/

Orange County Office on Aging

The OC Office on Aging provides countywide support for seniors including housing, meals, transportation, and care services. Their website is https://www.ocgov.com/residents/health/care-seniors-disabled

  CITY OF LAGUNA NIGUEL SERVICES

City of Laguna Niguel – Human Services Program

The City of Laguna Niguel’s Human Services Program serves as a local access point for residents—including seniors—who need assistance with housing, food, healthcare, and social services. The program provides case management and connects individuals to county and nonprofit resources, including mental health services, rental assistance, and support programs.Their services can be found here.

CITY OF SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO SERVICES

CHEC Family Resource Center

27412 Calle Arroyo, San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675 | 949-489-7742

The CHEC Family Resource Center serves as a centralized hub connecting residents to essential services including healthcare access, mental health support, food assistance, parenting resources, and case management. It operates as a “one-stop” community resource center designed to help families—including seniors—navigate and access county and nonprofit services. Visit their website here.

 CITY OF DANA POINT SERVICES

Community & Emergency Services

33282 Golden Lantern, Dana Point, CA 92629 | 949-248-3500

The City of Dana Point provides a local access point for residents seeking assistance with housing, food, and social services. Through its community services programs, the City connects residents to regional providers such as Family Assistance Ministries and other Orange County resources for case management, emergency assistance, and support services. https://www.danapoint.org/

 CITY OF SAN CLEMENTE SERVICES

Family Assistance Ministries

1000 Calle Cordillera, San Clemente, CA 92673 | 949-492-8477

Family Assistance Ministries (FAM) serves South Orange County and functions as a centralized resource hub providing rental assistance, food support, homelessness prevention, and case management services. The organization helps individuals and families access housing resources, financial assistance, and supportive services to stabilize their living situations. Their website can be found here.

CITY OF OCEANSIDE SERVICES

North Coastal Family Resource Center

3708 Ocean Ranch Blvd, Oceanside, CA 92056 | 866-262-9881

The North Coastal Family Resource Center is a county-operated service hub that helps residents access public benefits, housing support, healthcare, and social services. Seniors can receive assistance with CalFresh, Medi-Cal, and case management, as well as referrals for housing and in-home support services. Their website can be found here.

CITY OF VISTA SERVICES

Community Interface Services

981 Vale Terrace Dr, Vista, CA 92084 | 760-729-3866

Community Interface Services is a major nonprofit resource provider in North San Diego County that supports older adults and individuals with disabilities. Services include housing assistance, independent living support, case management, and connections to healthcare and social services. The organization helps seniors remain safely housed and independent while navigating public benefits and long-term care resources. Their website can be found here. 

CITY OF FALLBROOK SERVICES

Refer to San Diego County Resources