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Red Cross Feeds, Shelters Wildfire Evacuees
Written by
Jennifer Richmond
, Special to RedCross.org
Tuesday, October 28, 2003 — Santa Ana winds continue to push wildfires unabated through California from south of San Diego to North of Los Angeles, charring more than 450,000 acres. Forced from their homes over the last three days, devastated and shocked residents are reaching out to the American Red Cross for shelter, emergency feeding and emotional support as evacuations forced approximately 50,000 from their homes.
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Donating Goods
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While the kind offers of clothing, toys and other items are greatly appreciated, the Red Cross cannot accept individual donations of goods. For more information, please click here.
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Initial reports state between 650 and 850 homes destroyed by the fires. Eight American Red Cross chapters within the state have banded together to open 23 shelters/evacuation centers, housing more than 3,000 displaced residents, with that number expected to rise. Ten Emergency Response Vehicles from within the state are providing feeding to evacuees and firefighters.
Specially trained Red Cross mental health counselors are also converging in the region to provide comfort and support to those who have been traumatized by the shock of losing the possession of a lifetime in just minutes worth of flames.
Thousands of people were forced from their homes by the ferocious wildfires. Photo courtesy of IncidentControl.com. |
“American Red Cross support will be critical for those affected by this disaster,” said Red Cross spokesperson Ray Steen. “The rapidity with which this fire is affecting communities will require mental health support in addition to shelter and emergency feeding.”
President Bush declared a major disaster in affected parts of California, opening the way for federal funding for governments, businesses and people affected by the fires. The NFL was forced to relocate the weekly Monday night football from San Diego to Arizona and Qualcomm stadium in San Diego has been turned into a major evacuation center.
Relatives seeking word of family members in shelters should contact their local Red Cross and ask to complete a Disaster Welfare Inquiry form. Residents facing potential danger can call the Red Cross Hotline at 1-866-GET-INFO for shelter locations, information on affected areas and disaster safety information or contact their local Red Cross chapter.
What You Can Do to Help
If you live in the San Diego area, visit the San Diego/Imperial Counties Red Cross chapter Web site to register online for volunteer opportunities.
All American Red Cross disaster assistance is free, and relies on voluntary donations of time and money from the American people. Help the California wildfires victims now, and the victims of thousands of disasters across the country each year by your financial gift to our Disaster Relief Fund. Donate onlineor call toll free 1-800-HELP NOW (1-800-257-7575 for Spanish speakers) or you can mail inyour gift to the American Red Cross Disaster Relief Fund, P. O. Box 37243, Washington, DC 20013.
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