Recovery continues for wildfire victims

With the announcement of an early opening to this year’s wildfire season, the American Red Cross has announced that it will continue to work with those affected by fires that devastated portions of Simi Valley, Fillmore and Moorpark last fall.

Some of those whose homes were either heavily damaged or destroyed have not yet completed the process of recovery, and Red Cross caseworkers remain available to help them.

Those with additional recovery needs created by last fall’s wildfires are urged to call the American Red Cross of Ventura County at (805) 339-2234, ext. 224. Assistance is provided on a case by case basis, based upon thorough interviews conducted with the affected individuals and families.

"Recovery takes time," said Matt Rosenberg, director of Emergency Services at the Red Cross of Ventura County. "Sometimes, new emergency needs are identified by victims several months following a major incident. We want to be there for those affected and to help them meet those needs."

In Ventura County, the American Red Cross is working in partnership with Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster and additional assistance may also be available through Lutheran Social Services at (805) 497-6207 or the Commission on Human Concerns at (805) 486-4725.

The Red Cross anticipates providing direct support to victims of last fall’s wildfires through at least November 30.