FEMA assistance center opens in downtown Santa Rosa

More than 100 people lined up on Mendocino Avenue before 9 a.m. Saturday seeking information and access to services at a newly established Federal Emergency Management Agency hub.

The Local Assistance Center opened on the first floor of The Press Democrat building at 427 Mendocino Ave. The center brings together federal, state and local agencies as a “one-stop-shop” to help people rebuild their lives.

“I lost everything,” said Felis Domingues, a 70-year-old Fountaingrove resident who was at the front of the line. “All my personal documents are gone. I'm not sure want FEMA can do but I'm looking for information.”

People who have been left homeless in the fire can receive money for temporary housing and recoup losses from FEMA. The California Department of Motor Vehicles will also issue new driver's licenses at the center for people who lost theirs in the fire.

Domingues, who has been staying with a friend in Sebastopol since her home was destroyed Sunday night, said she was especially interested in receiving help finding temporary housing.

Residents - even those who are covered by homeowner, commercial and auto policies at the time of the disaster - are urged to apply online at www.DisasterAssistance.gov or by phone at 800-621-3362.

You can reach Staff Writer Nick Rahaim at 707-521-5203 or nick.rahaim@pressdemocrat.com. On Twitter @nrahaim