IHSS, Meals on Wheels clients requested to check in
The Adult Services branch of the Lake County Department of Social Services is asking all InHome Supportive Services (IHSS) and Meals on Wheels clients affected by the Valley Fire to contact them. They want to ensure the safety and wellbeing of their clients and ensure they are receiving the benefits, resources and referrals they need.
Lake County Adult Services can be reached at 995-4680.
Mail Service resumes
Home delivery of mail has resumed from the Middletown Post Office. Those who cannot receive mail at their homes can receive their mail at the Middletown Post Office, 21177 Calistoga Road, with a photo ID, between the hours of 9 a.m. and 5 p.m.
Mail for Cobb area residents is being held at the Kelseyville Post Office, 5500 Gaddy Lane, Kelseyville, and is available, with a photo ID, between the hours of 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. The U.S. Postal Service says its Cobb Post Office was not destroyed in the fire, but they have not been able to assess if there is any smoke or other damage.
Residents may have mail forwarded to a temporary address by filling out a form acquired at any U.S. Post Office, or online at www.usps.com.
Post-Pear Fest fundraiser
Mt Konocti Winery is hosting a fundraiser to support the Valley Fire victims Saturday night, Sept. 26 from 5 to 9 p.m. at their facilities at 2550 Big Valley Road in Kelseyville.
The “After Pear Festival” party will include appetizers and Lake County wines. Attendees will have the opportunity to dance to the great music from the LC Diamonds. Admission is $10 per person.
Spoiled Food
Many households have experienced food spoilage due to loss of power during the Valley Fire. It is important to discard the spoiled food in dumpsters that are identified for food disposal.
Residents without bins should contact South Lake Refuse at 9948613 to schedule replacement bins.
The good news is that your refrigerator and freezer can be cleaned and put back into use. Lake County Public Health offers some helpful tips for cleaning and removing odors from appliances:
Wipe the inside of the unit with equal parts vinegar and water. Or you can use a mixture no stronger than 1 part household bleach mixed with 10 parts of water.
Wash the inside of the unit with a solution of baking soda and water. Be sure to scrub the gaskets, shelves, sides, and door. Allow to air out several days.
If odors persist, you can place an open container of baking soda or fresh coffee grounds in the unit. There is no need to discard the appliance. With a thorough cleaning and air drying, it should be perfectly fine to put back in use.
Temporary housing assistance
A Shelter Hotline is available to assist people with locating temporary housing. The number is 262-1090 and the hours of operation are from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., seven days a week.
The general hotline for Valley Fire information and resources is (888) 5652787.
Veterans assistance available
Property owners with a CalVet Home loan who experienced property loss or were evacuated due to the recent fires may be eligible to file a claim.
To file a claim call the CalVet Claims Adjuster, Carl Warren & Company, at (800) 626-1613, 24-hours a day.
If you have concerns or are in need of insurance information, call the CalVet Home Protection Unit at (866) 421-6987, Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
