People affected by the ongoing Los Angeles wildfires can get a one-time payment of $770 in addition to other forms of assistance they may be eligible for.

The $770 is meant to help pay for immediate needs like water, prescription medicines and baby formula, President Biden said at a White House briefing.

Nearly 6,000 people have registered and over $5.1 million has been distributed, Mr. Biden said.

Federal Emergency Management Agency Administrator Deanne Criswell said that, in addition to those who have gotten $770 as part of the Serious Needs Assistance program, 33,000 people affected by the wildfires have signed up for other forms of government aid.

“Serious Needs Assistance is an initial payment you may receive while FEMA assesses your eligibility for additional funds. As your application continues to be reviewed, you may still receive additional forms of assistance for other needs,” FEMA said in a fact sheet put out after Hurricane Helene.

For wildfire victims specifically, the agency is offering reimbursement for certain out-of-pocket hotel costs, temporary accommodations and financial aid to go towards rent or home repair.

FEMA will notify those eligible for the Transitional Sheltering Assistance Program via the communication method they chose when first applying for disaster relief, the agency said Wednesday. Other programs offer additional aid, such as for extra lodging expenses.

The wildfires have killed at least 25 and destroyed thousands of homes and other buildings.

• Brad Matthews can be reached at bmatthews@washingtontimes.com.