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Childcare AssistanceDiversion is a service designed to redirect CalWORKs applicants from extended assistance by making a one-time payment to help the client meet a need that will help them obtain or maintain employment.
Children’s Free Learning ActivitiesCommon Sense is dedicated to providing teachers and families with free resources to help kids learn, grow, and thrive with media and technology. Join our community for more tips and resources to support kids' learning and healthy development.
Free Educational SubscriptionsEach of these websites will allow you to sign-up for FREE and help your child along with their education. As you will see, there is a wide variety of subjects and age ranges for young people of all ages.
Orange County Department of EducationThe Orange County Department of Education (OCDE) serves some of Orange County’s most vulnerable student populations and provides support and mandated fiscal oversight to 28 school districts serving more than 600 schools and approximately 450​,000 students.
Scholastic Learn at HomeScholastic is the world's largest publisher and distributor of children's books, connecting educators and families through accessibility, engagement, and expertise.

BenefitsCal and SSA Office Locations

As of April 24, 2023, there is a new simple way to apply for, view and renew benefits for health coverage, food and cash assistance: www.BenefitsCal.com.

BenefitsCal.com replaces MyBenefitsCalWIN (MyBCW), MyBenefitsCalWIN.org and the MyBenefitsCalWIN Mobile App.

Collaborating Organizations Active in DisasterThe mission of Collaborating Organizations Active in Disaster - Orange County (COAD-OC) is to establish and enhance partnerships among community-based and governmental organizations that will collaborate, communicate, and coordinate preparedness, response and recovery efforts for Orange County residents during times of disaster.
OC AssessorResponsible for assessing property values within the county for tax purposes.
OC Health Care AgencyThe OC Health Care Agency (HCA) plays a crucial role in the emergency response of events that impact the health or safety of Orange County residents. The HCA leads key response management and messaging, and provides support through environmental assessment, medical services and supply distribution, as well as access to behavioral health services.  
OC ParksFor information regarding park and trail closures, please visit ocparks.com/alerts.
OC Public WorksResponsible for a wide range of services that contribute to the infrastructure and quality of life in Orange County.
OC Sheriff-Coroner

The Orange County Sheriff’s Department is among the largest in the nation, providing exemplary law enforcement services focused on a collaborative, dedicated and innovative approach to public safety. 

Our nearly 4,000 sworn and professional staff are committed to serving the needs of Orange County through six organizational Commands comprised of 23 Divisions. Together, these Commands and Divisions provide services including land, air and sea-based patrol, custody operations, investigative services, emergency management, coroner services, forensics and specialty operations, among an extensive list of other public safety services.

OC Social Services AgencyOC Social Services Agency is responsible for planning, implementing, and operating many of the social services programs provided by the County of Orange. 
OC Treasurer-Tax CollectorThe Tax Collector collects all property taxes pursuant to California Revenue and Taxation Code Section 2602. 
OC Waste & RecyclingOC Waste & Recycling serves the County’s solid waste disposal needs by providing waste management services, operating public landfills, protecting the local environment, investing in renewable energy enterprises and promoting recycling in order to ensure a safe and healthy community for current and future generations.
Red CrossThe American Red Cross Southern California Region provides food and shelter in emergencies, assist members of our armed forces, veterans and their families, teach lifesaving skills to ensure our communities are prepared to respond to emergencies, and so much more. All Red Cross assistance is free, made possible by voluntary donations of time and money from the American people.

FAQs for Fire Debris DisposalFAQs for Household Hazardous Waste, Fire Debris Removal and Cleanup for residents and businesses impacted by wildfires
Tree Removal AssistanceProvided by the County of Orange Public Works for service requests that are located on County of Orange property not local city jurisdictions

EDD Disaster-Related ServicesThe California Employment Development Department (EDD) provides a variety of services to individuals and businesses affected by disasters in California. EDD staff assist at Local Assistance Centers or Disaster Recovery Centers established by the California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES) or federal authorities.
Unemployment BenefitsFind out if you qualify for unemployment and learn about the benefits you could receive.

Air QualityOne-stop source for air quality data.
Environmental Health DivisionOC Health Care Agency's Environmental Health Division works to protect public health and our environment, and promotes the well-being of all Orange County residents, workers and visitors. Environmental Health is a regulatory agency that relies heavily on education and outreach to obtain compliance. Services include retail and wholesale food protection, foodborne illness investigations, public pool inspections, childhood lead exposure prevention, water quality, ocean water protection, solid waste facility oversight, hazardous materials surveillance and mitigation oversight, underground and aboveground storage tank oversight, body art facility and practitioner oversight, medical waste management inspections and a used oil recycling education program.
Water Quality LaboratoryState certified public health microbiologists conduct drinking and recreational water testing using rapid, advanced methods.

Apply for food (CalFresh), medical (Medi-Cal) and cash (General Relief & CalWORKs) assistance
  • CalFresh - CalFresh can help your family get access to healthy food. You can use CalFresh benefits at most grocery stores and even farmers markets to buy items such as bread, nuts, rice, and more.
  • Medi-Cal - Medi-Cal provides free or low-cost health care to people who qualify. It can help pay for doctor visits, hospital care, immunization (vaccines), pregnancy-related services, nursing home care, and other services.
  • General Relief & CalWORKS - CalWORKs helps with cash to pay for rent, housing, food, clothing, medical payments, and utilities for families with at least one child in the home.
Behavioral Health and Crisis Support It is OC Health Care Agency's mission to prevent substance abuse and/or mental health crisis; when signs are present, to intervene early and appropriately; and when assessments indicate that treatment is required, to provide the right type of treatment, at the right place, by the right person / programs to help individuals achieve and maintain the  highest quality of health and wellness.
Coping Tips for Traumatic Events and Disasters (SAMHSA)Emotional distress can happen before and after a disaster. Coping strategies include preparation, self-care, and identifying support systems. People can experience a wide range of emotions before and after a disaster or traumatic event. There’s no right or wrong way to feel. However, it’s important to find healthy ways to cope when these events happen.
Coping with Disaster (Ready.gov)Disasters are upsetting experiences for everyone involved. The emotional toll that disaster brings can sometimes be even more devastating than the financial strains of damage and loss of home, business or personal property.
COVID-19 Resources and InformationWhile the Emergency response has ended with the end of the National Public Health Emergency in May 2023, COVID continues to circulate and affect many in the community. Prevention, testing and treatment remain important in controlling the spread and severity of illness.
Disaster Distress Helpline: Get Immediate Crisis Counseling and Support (SAMHSA)

The Disaster Distress Helpline (DDH) is the first national hotline dedicated to providing year-round disaster crisis counseling. This toll-free, multilingual, crisis support service is available 24/7 to all residents in the U.S. and its territories who are experiencing emotional distress related to natural or human-caused disasters.

Call or text 1-800-985-5990.

Español: Llama o envía un mensaje de texto 1-800-985-5990 presiona “2.”

For Deaf and Hard of Hearing ASL Callers: To connect directly to an agent in American Sign Language, click the "ASL Now" button below or call 1-800-985-5990 from your videophone. ASL Support is available 24/7. FAQs for ASL NOW users.

Food AssistanceFind local soup kitchens, food pantries, home-delivered meals, congregate meals and after-school meals for yourself and the rest of your family. 
Medicare Card (Protection and Replacement)

Only give personal information, like your Medicare Number, to health care providers, your insurance companies or health plans (and their licensed agents or brokers), or people you trust that work with Medicare, like your State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP).

My card is lost or damaged — Log into (or create) your secure Medicare account to print or order an official copy of your Medicare card. You can also call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227) to order a replacement card to be sent in the mail. TTY users can call 1-877-486-2048.  

OC Health Care AgencyResponsible for providing a wide range of public health services and programs. Its mission is to protect and promote the health of the community through services such as disease prevention, health education, environmental health, and emergency preparedness.
OC Links(855) 625-4657

Contact OC Links anytime you want – the (855) 625-4657 phone line and live chat are both available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

When you do, you’ll talk with an understanding and supportive “Navigator” who’s been specially trained to guide you to the exact Health Care Agency resources that will help you most. Your Navigator can assist you with and connect you to behavioral health services for people of all ages.

OCNavigator.orgThe OC Navigator is part of the Orange County Behavioral Health System Transformation Innovation Project. The project seeks to help people find and connect with the supportive resources they need in different areas of their life including health, wellbeing and other supportive services.
Orange County Public Health Services AgencyMonitors and investigates the occurrence of disease, injury, and related factors in the community and in collaboration with community partners develops and implements preventive strategies to maintain and improve the health of the public.

OC Housing and Community Development

Temporary housing or temporary housing assistance is unavailable. Assistance is currently only provided to existing voucher holders or landlords. If you or someone you know was experiencing homelessness prior to a natural disaster, please contact Office of Care Coordination.

  1. I’m displaced by a natural disaster.  Can you get me housing?
    If you are a current Orange County Housing Authority (OCHA) tenant, you may contact OCHA for information on the steps necessary to begin a new housing search process.  If you are not a current OCHA tenant, unfortunately, OCHA does not have resources available to assist with housing.
  2. I’m a landlord looking to help.  What are my options?
    ? If you are a landlord with a unit available you may contact our landlord listing email address at OCHA.Referral@occr.ocgov.com.  If you are landlord housing a current OCHA voucher holder and have questions about what happens to your assistance if you need to repair your rental unit, you may contact OCHA at OCHAContact@occr.ocgov.com for guidance.

Community Legal Aid SoCalCommunity Legal Aid SoCal is dedicated to meeting the legal needs of low-income people throughout Orange and Southeast Los Angeles Counties.

DMV Change of AddressUse this application to change your address(es). Allow up to 3 days for processing.
Franchise Tax BoardFranchise Tax Board's mission is to help taxpayers file timely and accurate tax returns, and pay the correct amount to fund services important to Californians.
Social Security Change of AddressSocial Security Administration administer retirement, disability, survivor, and family benefits, and enroll individuals in Medicare. We also provide Social Security Numbers, which are unique identifiers needed to work, handle financial transactions, and determine eligibility for certain government services.
USPS Mailing Address

If you're moving, submit a permanent change of address request so your USPS® mail is properly rerouted to your new address.

If you're only relocating for 15 days up to 1 year (like going to school or staying with family or friends), submit a temporary change of address request.

Animal Loss and DisposalFor information regarding Animal Loss and Disposal, contact OC Animal Care.
Emergency Animal Evacuation InformationSouthern California is subject to a number of different natural disasters such as wildfire, floods and earthquakes. Other emergencies such as power outages, extreme temperatures, and other events can disrupt normal activities. The best way to protect your pets is to ensure you are prepared for these situations.
Lost PetsInformation if your pet is lost or you found a stray animal.
Pet Funeral Arrangements

Make arrangements for your pet’s remains: 

  • Contact your veterinarian. Your vet’s office will typically be able to guide you with aftercare arrangements such as cremation or burial.   
  • Contact your local animal control agency for options. OC Animal Care residents can call 714-935-6848.  

Check a Contractor License or Home Improvement SalespersonLook up a contractor license or Home Improvement Salesperson (HIS) registration to verify information, including complaint disclosure. Before hiring a contractor or signing a contract, CSLB recommends you read the Hiring a Contractor page.
Claim for Money or Damages AgainstIf your property has been damaged as a result of the Airport Fire, and you are currently insured, file a claim with your insurance provider. If your property has been damaged as a result of the Airport Fire and you are underinsured or uninsured, please fill out this form:
Claim for Money or Damages Word Doc 
Claim for Money or Damages Adobe PDF
Declare a Disaster ClaimIf your property has been damaged by fire or some other type of calamity, you may be entitled to a temporary property tax reduction.
Department of InsurancePlease work with your insurance agent or broker, claims adjuster, and insurance company with a goal of achieving a settlement that you believe is fair and consistent with your coverage. If you have a question about your insurance or a dispute with your insurance company, please call 1-800-927-4357.
Disaster Help CenterDesigned to provide information and resources regarding public assistance and services available to individuals and families impacted by California wildfires and other natural disasters or emergencies.
Disaster loss deduction (How to claim on your tax return)You may deduct any President or Governor declared loss caused by a disaster you suffered in California. California law generally follows federal law regarding the treatment of losses incurred as a result of a casualty or a disaster.
Governor-Declared Disaster - Replacement PropertyFAQs provided by OC Assessor.
Insurance AssistanceProvided by United Policyholders. United Policyholders (UP) is a non-profit 501(c) (3) organization whose mission is to be a trustworthy and useful information resource and an effective voice for consumers of all types of insurance in all 50 states.
Property DamagesThe Assessor Department will work with property owners to review potential property damages caused by a calamity such as a fire, earthquake, or flooding and will make value adjustments as appropriate. Damage to land, buildings or other structures totaling ten thousand dollars ($10,000) or more may be eligible.
Property Tax Disaster ReliefFAQs provided by OC Treasurer-Tax Collector.
Rebuilding After DisastersFire can damage the environment in many ways: burned areas are more susceptible to erosion and burned debris may contain harmful chemicals. Protect your property, your own safety, and the environment with the proper methods of cleanup and repair.
Unemployment BenefitsFind out if you qualify for unemployment and learn about the benefits you could receive.

OCFA Pre-Fire Safety Planning and TrainingWhether you go early or leave during a mandatory evacuation, it’s important to follow your Wildfire Action Plan.
Rebuilding After the FireFire and emergency information provided by OC Public Works.
Recovering from DisasterRecovering from a disaster is usually a gradual process. Safety is a primary issue, as are mental and physical well-being. If assistance is available, knowing how to access it makes the process faster and less stressful. This section offers some general advice on steps to take after disaster strikes in order to begin getting your home, your community and your life back to normal.
Returning Home ChecklistThe danger doesn’t end when the wildfire is extinguished. The aftermath can present various hazards, from flash flooding and debris flows to structural instability and compromised trees. Here’s a comprehensive guide to navigate this critical period safely.
Wildfire FAQ’sWildfires are unplanned fires that burn in natural areas like forests, grasslands or prairies. These dangerous fires spread quickly and can devastate not only wildlife and natural areas, but also communities.

Orange County RoadsUpdates from OC Public Works.
Orange County SigalertsOrange County Traffic Report.

Apply for a Replacement California Certificate of Title (Pink Slip)A replacement California Certificate of Title must be obtained when the original is lost, stolen, mutilated, illegible, or not received. An Application for Replacement or Paperless Title (REG 227) form must be completed by the legal or registered owner (if no legal owner is on DMV records) and submitted with the replacement title fee.
DMV Vehicle Registration Card 
Driver's License or ID Card ReplacementIf your driver’s license (DL), identification (ID) card, or commercial driver’s license (CDL) has been lost, stolen, or damaged, you may request a replacement.
Medicare Card (Protection and Replacement)

Only give personal information, like your Medicare Number, to health care providers, your insurance companies or health plans (and their licensed agents or brokers), or people you trust that work with Medicare, like your State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP).

My card is lost or damaged — Log into (or create) your secure Medicare account to print or order an official copy of your Medicare card. You can also call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227) to order a replacement card to be sent in the mail. TTY users can call 1-877-486-2048.  

Military RecordsIf you have been impacted by a natural disaster and need priority service to replace a Separation Document (usually DD Form 214 or equivalent), place the word “Natural Disaster” in the "Comments" section of eVetRecs or in the "Purpose" section of the Standard Form (SF) 180, Request Pertaining to Military Records.
Passport ReplacementWant to immediately replace your valid lost or stolen passport? Reporting it lost or stolen does not replace it. You must apply in person and submit both Form DS-64 and Form DS-11 if you want a replacement passport. 
Property Documents

 The office of the Orange County Clerk-Recorder cannot provide legal advice to the public and cannot assist the public in the preparation of legal documents. If you have any questions concerning which document form is appropriate to your transaction, or are in need of assistance in the preparation of that document, consult an attorney or obtain other professional advice.

Questions? Call (714) 834-2887 to speak to a document examiner.

Replace Social Security cardYou can request a free replacement card.
Replace Your Green CardIf you are a lawful permanent resident or conditional permanent resident and need to replace your Green Card, you may begin the application process for a replacement Green Card by filing Form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card, online or by mail. 
Request for Copy of Federal Tax ReturnForm 4506, Request for Copy of Tax Return is filed by taxpayers to request exact copies of one or more previously filed tax returns and tax information from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS).1 Copies may be needed to complete a current-year tax return, amend a prior-year tax return, file a claim for a refund or abatement, apply for government benefits, apply for federal student aid, verify income during a loan application process, or defend an IRS audit.
Request for Copy of State Tax Return

You may be able to obtain a free copy of your California tax return. Go to MyFTB for information on how to register for your account.

You may also request a copy of your tax return by submitting a Request for Copy of Tax Return (Form FTB 3516) or written request.

U.S. Savings Bonds ReplacementIf your paper savings bond is lost, stolen, destroyed, mutilated, or you never received it, you can ask for replacement.
Vital RecordsThe California Department of Public Health – Vital Records (CDPH-VR) maintains birth, death, fetal death/still birth, marriage, and divorce records for California. Services provided by CDPH-VR include issuing certified copies of California vital records and registering and amending vital records as authorized by law.