Red Cross Update: Thomas Fire
The message below was sent to us by Kimberly Coley, Executive Director of the American Red Cross, Pacific Coast & Ventura County Chapters.
Friends,
As we begin the New Year, our hearts and minds remain focused on those most affected by the Thomas Fire. It’s been our privilege to provide safe haven for so many and we’re incredibly thankful for all the support we’ve received along the way.
Red Cross caseworkers continue to meet one-on-one with affected families to create individualized recovery plans, navigate paperwork, and provide resources and referrals to other agencies. In some situations, the Red Cross may also provide direct financial assistance. This financial assistance can be used for needs such as an apartment deposit, clothing or food, or to cover immediate transportation expenses. All of these services, along with Red Cross clean up kits (sifters, cleaning supplies, rakes, shovels, etc) are being provided at the following locations this week:
Ventura County Credit Union, 6026 Telephone Rd., Ventura, CA 93003
Tuesday, January 2, 2018 through Friday, January 5, 2018 – 12:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Saturday, January 6, 2018 through Sunday, January 7, 2018 – 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Ojai Public Library, 111 E Ojai Ave., Ojai, CA 93023
Saturday, January 6 through Sunday, January 7, 2018 – 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
In addition to our client assistance centers, a public hotline has been set up for anyone who may have additional questions about the services that are available. Community members are also welcome to schedule an appointment with a caseworker if these days/locations do not work for them. Please help us reach those in need by encouraging your constituents to visit a Red Cross assistance center or call the public hotline at (512) 745-2920. They can also contact our local Red Cross chapter at (805) 987-1514 to learn more.
As we all know, recovery after a disaster is often measured in months and years… and our community expects our best right now. On behalf of our team, thank you for all the hard work and for your continued partnership and support of our local Red Cross!
With gratitude,
Kimberly
Kimberly Coley | Executive Director
American Red Cross, Pacific Coast & Ventura County Chapters
About the American Red Cross:
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies about 40 percent of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a not-for-profit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or join our blog at http://blog.redcross.org.