FEMA Providing Modular Homes For Butte, Valley Fire Victims
MCCLELLAN AIR PARK (CBS13) - FEMA officials are bringing in temporary homes for people who lost their homes in the Valley and Butte fires, which left thousands homeless.
So far, seven mobile homes have arrived at McClellan Air Park, but more are on the way. The area is being used as a staging area so the homes get to the hardest-hit areas as fast as possible.
As thousands who lost their homes try to recover from two of the most devastating fires in California's history, help is on the way.
"While they are figuring out their long-term plan, they have a safe and secure place...a roof over their head to do that," said FEMA External Affairs Officer Kelly Hudson.
Several mobile homes have arrived at McClellan Air Park in Sacramento. They will be to residents near the Butte and Valley Fires whose homes burned down.
"They will be able to cook; they will be able to eat and shower as if they were at home for a temporary situation," said Hudson.
She says one, two and three-bedroom mobile homes will be made available to those who lost their primary residence in the two fires.
"So far we have had about 2,500 people register for FEMA assistance; and I want to emphasize that is the important first step in order to be considered to be eligible for temporary housing. Folks need to register," she said.
More than 2,000 homes were destroyed by the Valley and Butte Fires and 146,000 acres of land was scorched.
Meanwhile, Governor Brown signed an executive order that suspends regulations and waives fees to allow the mobile homes to be brought in and set up as close as possible to properties devastated by fire in Calaveras and Lake Counties.
Hudson says the temporary homes, which are furnished, will help to provide a sense of relief to the people who need it most while they try and rebuild from the ashes.
The first -- and most important -- step to being eligible for a home is to register with FEMA by either going online or calling 1-800-621-3362.
If you don't qualify, there are other options like apartments or group homes.