Red Cross Central California Blog
The American Red Cross prevents and alleviates human suffering in the face of emergencies by mobilizing the power of volunteers and the generosity of donors.
Jim Steel is no stranger to the Southern Sierra Nevada mountains, having lived in the high-altitude pine forest for the last 20 years. In that time, he has also become familiar with the devastating wildfires that are an all-too-common occurrence. So it wasn't the first time he and his wife found their home in the … Continue reading Twice Burned But Never Shy
Grandmothers’ Wedding Ring Found following a Devastating Home Fire By Cindy Huge, Public Affairs Volunteer During the chaos of an early morning fire that engulfed their beloved home, a family of six found themselves homeless and distraught. Thanks to the persistent barking of their dog, they were alerted to the danger and managed to escape … Continue reading Finding Joy Amongst the Ashes
By Taylor Poisall, Red Cross Public Affairs After a lifetime of living through multiple wildfires in the foothills of Fresno County, Joyce Horne knows when it’s time for her to evacuate. A late June thunderstorm sent more than 1,000 lightning strikes across the Central Valley, causing multiple vegetation fires across Fresno County. The Flash and … Continue reading Sew Much to Be Grateful For
It was a warm, sunny April afternoon in Ojai, California when a group of Red Crossers were finally able to meet face-to-face with Ignacio. Everyone was all smiles as he wheeled himself onto the front porch to meet the people that had spent countless hours in the previous months helping him to regain his mobility, … Continue reading Together We Can Do So Much
By Alison Votaw, Red Cross Communications Volunteer The first thing you may notice about George Manolakas is his infectious laugh and positive attitude. George joined the American Red Cross in 2022, after retiring at the age of 70 from being an attorney. George said he had sat on several non-profit boards and he knew he … Continue reading George Manolakas Proves Time and Compassion Make an Impact
The American Red Cross has harnessed the compassion and determination of women to deliver its lifesaving mission since Clara Barton founded the organization in 1881. In honor of Women's Month History Month, the Red Cross is amplifying the voices and contributions of women who further our mission in communities across the globe every day. Born and … Continue reading Women Have Inspired Candy Campbell-Ursu to Aim Higher
Written by Andrew De La Rosa, Red Cross Volunteer When devastating wildfires swept across Maui and the Island of Hawaii in early August, thousands were forced to flee their homes. In the wake of this heartbreaking disaster, American Red Cross volunteers and employees have worked tirelessly to deliver critical aid as residents cope with unthinkable … Continue reading Rebuilding Hope
Women have played an important role in fulfilling the lifesaving American Red Cross mission since Clara Barton founded the organization more than 140 years ago. Known as the “Angel of the Battlefield,” Clara had cared for wounded soldiers during the Civil War before establishing the Red Cross in the U.S., where she was a visionary leader in … Continue reading Meet Some of the Women Who Lead Like Clara Barton
American Red Cross volunteers are working around-the-clock to provide comfort and care to neighbors displaced by record flooding. The American Red Cross is currently responding to assist those impacted by storms throughout Santa Barbara and Ventura Counties. Please find our latest storm response information below. If you need Red Cross assistance, please call 1-800-RED CROSS … Continue reading Red Cross Responds to Severe Flooding Across the Pacific Coast
By Andrew De La Rosa, Communications Volunteer In the heart of Central California, Dana Sakoda, a retired elementary school teacher with a 22-year-long career behind her, has emerged as a source of comfort for those affected by disasters. American Red Cross volunteers like Dana are on the frontlines of disaster response, supporting families across the … Continue reading A Lifetime of Service
Red Cross Central California Blog 