Red Cross providing critical relief as thousands face unimaginable loss in southern California

Thousands of Californians are devastated by the catastrophic wildfires that wiped out their homes, cherished mementos and even their livelihoods. With neighborhoods reduced to ash, the American Red Cross is there providing help and hope with necessities like food, shelter, emotional care, recovery planning and financial assistance.

Through the wildfires, the Red Cross has seen the best of humanity ─ not only in California, but across the country ─ as thousands of people gave blood, donated money and contributed their time to help ensure no one would experience a crisis alone.

RED CROSS RESPONSE Thursday morning, more than 680 evacuees woke up in Red Cross shelters, which are a safe place for everyone and act as a hub for disaster help. Anyone who has been affected is welcome to stop by to get information, a hot meal, charge their phone and access other essential support. The Red Cross won’t ask for identification, and people don’t have to stay overnight. This support is critical as it could be weeks until some neighborhoods are reopened.

In shelters, disaster health volunteers are caring for minor injuries and replacing things like eyeglasses and medications, and mental health workers are providing emotional support to those experiencing unimaginable loss. Caseworkers are helping shelter residents plan their next steps and connect them with other community resources. The top priority is housing, but people also need help with transportation, health care, childcare and other challenges.

Nearly 450 Red Cross responders are working day and night to make sure people are not alone. Since the fires started over a week ago, the Red Cross has provided more than 33,000 meals and snacks with the help of partners