Their homes were reduced to ash, but survivors of the Eaton and Palisades fires still have to pay their mortgages. Now, the state of California is offering grants that could help some homeowners defray costs as they begin efforts to rebuild.

The California Housing Finance Agency launched the CalAssist Mortgage Fund program Thursday. Applicants can qualify for up to three months of mortgage payments, with a maximum grant of $20,000.

Officials said the relief does not need to be repaid.

“Altadena residents want to remain and rebuild in this community, but the financial press is real and growing for many,” said L.A. County Supervisor Kathryn Barger, who represents neighborhoods devastated by the Eaton Fire.

“We need to keep hope alive,” Barger said at a news conference in Altadena to

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