Ventura Fire: How You Can Help Thomas Fire Victims

VENTURA, CA — The Thomas fire blasted through Ventura and many fled for their lives without the barest essentials. Others have lost their homes and have nothing to return to. Numerous animals both large and small have been displaced due to the raging inferno. That is when charitable organizations step in to organize, help lend aid, and coordinate volunteers and donations for the people and pets of Ventura County.

As of Wednesday, over 50,000 people have been affected by the Thomas Fire, and six shelters are taking in evacuees, the Ventura County Fire Department's public information office stated.

As of Tuesday night, the American Red Cross Ventura County Chapter was caring for 600 residents at the Ventura County Fairgrounds, Nordhoff High School and Oxnard College. With people and animals displaced, helping hands are outreached in need of information on how to give.

“Our Red Cross volunteers have been working through the night to provide relief and comfort to hundreds of residents impacted by this fast-moving fire,” said Red Cross Executive Director Kimberly Coley, “We will continue to provide assistance for as long as there is a need.”

If you need to leave your home, the Red Cross recommends you take the following items with you, and always follow all evacuation orders from local officials. If you have time, grab the following items for your "go kit."

The United Way of Ventura County, American Red Cross of Ventura County and the Ventura County Sheriff’s Office of Emergency Services have all teamed up to create the Thomas Fire Fund. All proceeds will go directly to support the hundreds of residents displaced by the fires.

"The outpour of support from the community and neighboring communities is amazing," United Way of Ventura County spokesperson Vicki Raven said. Ralphs' grocery chain most notably donated $5,000 to the newly created Thomas Fire Fund. "100% of the donations to that fund go toward victims of the wildfire."

The Humane Society of Ventura County has seen record donations over the past 36 hours. With both small and large animals in their care, as of Wednesday afternoon, they are in need of horse corral panels, hay hooks and chicken feed.

"We have the space, but have run out of panels to cordon off the incoming horses," a Humane Society spokesperson said. According to kennel manager Angela Hanline, the animals are doing well, but there are items needed for their extended care.

"The numerous dogs in our care are doing well.," Hanline said. "We are in desperate need of food and supplies for the larger animals. Alfalfa hay, timothy hay, and water troughs for our horses, goats, donkeys, and alpacas is a top priority. We are also in need of small water and food dishes for our cats and crated animals, heavy duty hoses of all sizes, chicken feed, and cat food."
The Humane Society is anticipating that many of the animals in their care will remain there through the end of the year. Fulfill their Amazon List here: http://a.co/iZklWoc

Other Ways To Help:

Catholic Charities:

With the holidays approaching, many have lost all of their Christmas or holiday gifts. A charity was established by the Catholic Charities which is accepting donations of clothing and new toys and gifts to displaced Thomas Fire victims. Drop off at the Catholic Charities Ventura Community Services Center at 303 N. Ventura Ave., Ventura, CA 93001 or donate through the Catholic Charities Website.

Here is how you can help, and ensure donations reach the victims of the Thomas Fire:

United Way Donations:
Text UWVC to 41444 to make a cash donation to the Thomas Fire Fund.
Click here to make an online cash donation to the Thomas Fire Fund via the United Way of Ventura County.
Telephone the United Way of Ventura County at 805-485-6288 to make a donation.
Checks with “Thomas Fire Fund” in the memo line can be mailed to 702 County Square Drive, Suite 100 Ventura, CA 93003.

Red Cross Donations:

Donate to the Red Cross via their website. For information specifically about the Ventura Fire, and the local Red Cross Chapter, follow their Facebook page.

Animal Support:

To support animals in need, please visit the Humane Society of Ventura County and Los Angeles County Animal Care Foundation websites.

Photo of donations arriving courtesy of the Humane Society of Ventura County