Please share this with people needing help recovering from the Woolsey & Hill Fires in Southern California.
I gathered a few resources for a friend whose family lost everything the other day. There are a lot of people needing help and they may not know where to turn, or may be too proud to ask for help.
I know of two other families who have lost everything, too. Most of us in the area are just one or two degrees away from someone in dire need of financial, medical, mental or shelter & food help after the fires.
Many others have smoke and other damage thaf may displace them temporarily or sicken them. If you know anyone in any of these situations, they may say everything’s ok, but some may be overwhelmed, or even in shock. They may need a calm pro-active friend to help them get back on their feet.
If they can’t start things up themselves, get them on a shared phone call or log on with them beside you and help them get their claims started.
-Here’s where to start your FEMA app: https://www.disasterassistance.gov/
-File an incident report with the AMERICAN RED CROSS. You will be contacted by a specialist who will help you get started on getting help.
Dial 2-1-1 or text your zip code to 898211 to get connected to a specialist for personalized assistance.
Free, Confidential, 24/7.
Available in multiple languages.
-In Ventura County, you can also call 1-800-339-9597
-In Los Angeles County, the toll free number is 1-800-540-2000
–The Santa Monica Red Cross Is also a resource : 1450 11th St, Santa Monica 310-394-3773
– Don’t forget the Salvation Army is there for everyone:
https://westernusa.salvationarmy.org/usw_thq/location_search?location=90265&cat=7
– Contact your Insurance Company immediately. Owners/Renters.
– Go Fund Me:
http://www.gofundme.com can be a Godsend for people in real need.
https://www.gofundme.com/c/fundraising-tips/sharing to ask for help.
Tax Help for California Wildfire Victims: https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/tax-help-for-california-wildfire-victims
Comprehensive list of resources as of 11-16-18:
https://www.tolibrary.org/virtual-library/quick-start-guides/california-wildfire-resources-4561
TAKE ACTION! That’s the priority. And when you’re sure your friends and family in need have their claims filed and their recovery started, bring on your thoughts and prayers.
Photos: top: by Jaron Denson of his family homesite on 11-10-18.
Bottom: by Tim Rogan- of Simi Valley on 11-9-18 from above Wood Ranch facing southwest.
No Skin off my Teeth 