Rep. Chu Commends FEMA Release of Final Installment of Wildfire Survivor Case Management Funding

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) released the fourth and final installment of $3.3 million in previously approved funding for the Disaster Case Management Program (DCMP), completing the release of federal funding previously awarded to support survivors of the January 2025 Eaton and Palisades Fires

On September 30, 2026, following sustained pressure from Reps. Chu and Sherman and Sens. Schiff and Padilla, FEMA released the second and third installments of DCMP funding, totaling $6.6 million, on the same day the program was set to face a major funding cliff.

Rep. Chu, who has led congressional efforts to secure federal disaster assistance, tax relief, and long-term recovery resources for Eaton Fire survivors, repeatedly pressed FEMA to release the outstanding DCMP funds. She has also urged FEMA to approve California's separate request for supplemental funding needed to sustain the program and ensure survivors can continue receiving case management services.

Rep. Chu released the following statement:

"I am relieved that FEMA has finally released the full amount of previously approved funding for the DCMP. This money was already approved and set aside for survivors. There was no reason to withhold it and jeopardize critical recovery resources for thousands. Now, Californians can keep getting help navigating temporary housing and loan assistance without fear of being left to fend for themselves mid-process. And hundreds of case managers can keep supporting survivors without worrying about losing their jobs. However, FEMA must do the right thing and approve the State of California's appeal for additional supplemental funding to sustain DCMP through the full 24-month timeframe that FEMA itself approved.

Further, President Trump must still fully fund Governor Newsom's disaster supplemental request with no strings attached so our communities get the full federal recovery support they have waited far too long to receive. I will keep fighting until every survivor gets every dollar they are owed to rebuild and recover."