Here We Go Again

California Couple Flees Another Wildfire

By Cindy Huge, Red Cross Public Affairs Volunteer

Debra Thomas’ husband woke her from an afternoon nap to alert her about the imminent danger posed by the Borel Fire, prompting them to evacuate. This nightmarish scenario feels familiar to Debra, who has had to evacuate four times in the past 22 years.

After confirming the need to evacuate with the fire department, Debra knew exactly what to grab. She packed only the essentials in her prepared bags, not bothering with food, water, or anything extra, as she trusted the American Red Cross shelter to provide for their needs.

Debra and her husband walked into the Red Cross shelter with her husband’s life-saving medication. Immediately upon inquiring about getting ice, Chris Miller, the Red Cross Shelter Manager jumped into action to get a small cooler of ice to safely store the medication. Chris’ actions are a familiar sight at Red Cross shelters, as volunteers and staff work to meet the needs of all residents.

“I was happy to be able to help. That’s why I volunteer, to help others,” comments Miller.

Thomas stated she was grateful for the kind volunteers who have been very attentive to our needs. “They provide everything we need, a safe place to sleep including extra blankets for our cots, even a medical cot for my husband to sleep comfortably. The food has been very good, especially the macaroni and cheese we had for lunch.”

Debra is just one example of so many families that rely on the essential services that are provided at Red Cross shelters.

Whether you need a meal, a place to charge your devices or lay your head at night, everyone is welcome at our Red Cross shelter. Volunteers are giving essential relief and support to people like Debra and her husband. Red Cross will be here for as long as the community needs us. Find shelter information on redcross.org, the free Red Cross Emergency app or by calling 1-800-RED CROSS (800-733-2767).