Press release from the County of Santa Cruz:
Sept. 18, 2020
Since the start of the CZU Lightning Complex fires, county residents and community supporters both locally and beyond have stepped forward to make sure the needs of CZU Lightning Complex fire evacuees are being met. Effective Friday, September 18 at 4 p.m., the 1082 Emeline Ave. warehouse in Santa Cruz and the 114 Walker St. warehouse in Watsonville will no longer be accepting donations for fire evacuees or open to evacuees.
We thank the public for their amazing demonstrations of community support and inspiration during a very difficult time. The County is currently reaching out to community partners in the CZU Lightning Complex fire area to identify convenient locations for ongoing drop off and pick up of needed donation items. If evacuees are in need of water, clothing, toiletries, non- perishable food or other items during this transition time, please contact Santa Cruz County General Services at 831-454-2210, Monday-Friday 8 a.m.–5 p.m.
Total community donations to CZU Lightning Complex fire evacuees include (at minimum):
• 20,000 cases of water
• 2,000 sleeping bags and pillows
• 2,500 blankets
• 1,200 tents
• 1,000 tarps
In addition, non-perishable food items, toiletries, new clothes, hundreds of pairs of shoes, and much, much more have been donated. Residents of Santa Cruz County should be proud of the support they have shown for their neighbors.
The County also thanks corporate supporters such as Patagonia, O’Neill, Live Nation, Warner Entertainment, Sketchers, Pepsi, Pacific Wave, as well as the American Red Cross and hundred of volunteers who have helped make relief efforts possible. For updates on donations, please visit www.santacruzcounty.us/FireResources.aspx.
This press release was produced by the County of Santa Cruz. The views expressed here are the author’s own.
