CLEARLAKE OAKS >> While fire crews continue to increase containment of the over 13,000-acre Pawnee Fire, many evacuees are still in dire need of donations.
An estimated 3,000 from the Spring Valley and Double Eagle Ranch communities fled their homes as the fire multiplied since Saturday evening. Many sought shelter at the Moose Lodge in Clearlake Oaks and Lower Lake High School. The Lake County Sheriff’s Department and CAL FIRE lifted evacuation orders for both areas on Wednesday, allowing residents to enter homes as of 4 p.m. that same day. The unfortunate reality hit many as a damage assessment by officials was released, showing 22 structures were damaged. Of those, 12 were homes.
Here are ways to help those affected:
Donate
North Coast Opportunities has reopened its wildfire relief fund and donations are now being accepted. The nonprofit organization helped during previous fires including the Valley and Mendo Lake Complex Fire.
Those interested can donate via PayPal at www.ncoinc.org or 413 N. State St., Ukiah CA 95482. For more information, contact Robyn Bera at 707-467-3210.
The Red Cross, staged at the evacuation center in Lower Lake High School and Local Assistance Center in Spring Valley, is accepting donations and new volunteers.
To make a $10 donation, visit redcross.org or call 1-800-RED-CROSS. One can also text the word REDCROSS to 90999. To volunteer now or in the future, apply online at tinyurl.com/ARCPawnee
The Sonoma-based Rebuild Northbay Foundation is collecting donations for Lake County organizations helping fire survivors. To donate to its Pawnee Fire Relief Fund, visit rebuildnorthbay.org/donate or make checks payable to the Rebuild Northbay Foundation at 144 West Napa St. Sonoma, CA 95476. Indicate Lake County as the recipient.
The Moose Lodge is currently accepting in-kind donations. On Thursday, a volunteer said anything from food, clothing, personal hygiene items, and other essential materials are in need. Perhaps what is most needed, she said, are animal supplies.
Donations can be dropped off at the Lodge, located at 15900 E Highway 20 Clearlake Oaks, CA 95423. Anyone interested in helping is encouraged to call 707-998-3740 for updates on needs as they are often changing.
