The American Red Cross is continuing to support residents affected by the Thomas Fire, even as the holidays approach. Several Assistance Centers are currently open to help local families as they recover from the largest fire in California history.

The following additional Assistance Centers will be open next week to serve the community:

December 26, 2017 through December 30, 2017, 9:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.

Ventura County Credit Union, 6026 Telephone Road, Ventura, CA 93003

Tzu-Chi will be providing services on December 30, 2017

December 26, 2017, 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

Santa Barbara Red Cross chapter office, 2707 State Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93105

December 27, 2017, 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Palazzio Event Center, 814 E. Main Street, Santa Paula, CA

December 31, 2017, 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Ventura County Credit Union, 6026 Telephone Road, Ventura, CA 93003

December 31, 2017, 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Santa Barbara Red Cross chapter office, 2707 State Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93105

Tzu-Chi will be providing services

Red Cross caseworkers will connect one-on-one with people to create individualized recovery plans, navigate paperwork, and locate help from other agencies. In some situations, the Red cross may provide direct financial support. This assistance can be used for such needs as an apartment deposit, to buy clothes or food, or to cover immediate transportation expenses.

Red Cross clean up kits (sifters, cleaning supplies, shovels, etc.) will also be provided at each assistance center location.

The Red Cross is also working closely with government and nonprofit partners to help develop coordinated community recovery plans and strategies. Disaster recovery is often measured in months and years, and the Red Cross will continue to be here to provide hope, comfort, and support to anyone affected by the Thomas Fire.

A public hotline has been set up for anyone who may have additional questions about what Red Cross services are available. Please call (512) 745-2920 to learn more.