28 October 2003 09:20 AM EST
Salvation Army Responds to California Wildfires
Southern California (October 27, 2003) - The Salvation Army is responding in southern California to assist thousands of residents and fire fighters affected by the deadly wildfires being fueled by the hot, dry Santa Ana winds and high temperatures. The fires, the worst in over 10 years, are blazing from the Mexican border to the northern suburbs of Los Angeles.
Six Salvation Army emergency disaster services vehicles (canteens) are assisting in affected areas providing meals to evacuees staying in shelters and fire fighters battling the raging fires. Salvation Army officers (pastors) are also providing pastoral crisis counseling. Salvation Army Team Emergency Radio Network (SATERN) is providing vital communication between Salvation Army response teams and support communication for fire fighters, police and emergency responders.
The fires have already claimed 13 lives and destroyed over 850 buildings. Nearly 40,000 people have been evacuated from their homes and numerous highways have been closed. Over 7,000 fire fighters are battling the blazes in six counties and airline flights throughout the region have been affected by the fires.
Monetary donations, earmarked Disaster Relief, may be sent to your local Salvation Army or made online at www.salvationarmysouth.org or by calling 1-800-SAL-ARMY.
For further information, e-mail
jeff_jellets@uss.salvationarmy.org. CDF taking stand to save downtown Julian.
Historic post office is ok at this time.
Fire has crossed Hwy 79.
Deputies and cops patrolling for looters.