In response to the unprecedented housing displacement caused by the wildfires that impacted Los Angeles County in January 2025, Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors Chair Kathryn Barger and Supervisor Lindsey P. Horvath successfully introduced a motion today to provide emergency housing relief for families who lost their homes.
The motion’s directives, approved unanimously by the Board of Supervisors during their meeting this morning, directs the Los Angeles County Development Authority (LACDA) to prioritize 50 Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV) for displaced residents earning less than 50% of the Area Median Income.
HCV–commonly known as Section 8 vouchers–are a federal housing assistance program administered by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). The program provides rental subsidies to low-income individuals and families, allowing them to secure safe, decent, and affordable housing in the private rental market.
“Many of the residents affected by these wildfires were renters who now face immense challenges securing a new home,” Chair Kathryn Barger said. “These vouchers will serve as a critical lifeline for displaced families struggling to create stability for their children and households. They are one more resource we can offer to provide immediate relief and support. We must not forget the needs of renters in our recovery efforts.”
“The devastating wildfires have left thousands of families without homes, many of whom were already struggling to afford housing,” said Supervisor Lindsey P. Horvath. “We must act swiftly to provide immediate relief and ensure impacted residents have access to stable, affordable housing. By prioritizing Housing Choice Vouchers for families who lost their homes, LA County is taking an essential step toward recovery, ensuring that no one is left behind as we rebuild.”
LACDA has already taken steps to expedite relief by requesting a regulatory waiver from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). Once approved, the agency will immediately amend its HCV Administrative Plan to create a new local preference for fire victims, allowing eligible residents to receive assistance on a first-come, first-served basis.
Public notifications will be issued through the LACDA website and regional partners to ensure impacted families are aware of the opportunity to apply for housing assistance.