Valley Star

Issue date: 11/7/07 Section: News

Media Credit: Paul Olden WRITERS HIT THE BRICKS- Members of the Writers Guild of America have been on strike since Nov. 5.

Southern Californians, from San Diego to Santa Barbara, witnessed the effects of last month's wildfires. With seven fatalities and an estimated $1 billion in damages, many have not only lost their homes, but have lost everything they had. So what can the residents of the Golden State do to help those in need?

"I lost everything I had, there is nothing left, and I mean nothing!" said Maryam Torabani with tears slowly sliding down her face as she looked at the remains of her Malibu home. "All of my friends and family have helped me in any way they were able to and I am so thankful the community has come together to help each other out in this time of need."

The fires caused wide-spread evacuations of up to 880,000 people and burned more than 518,000 acres of land. Firefighters have battled with the wildfires for approximately three weeks in hopes of saving as many homes and structures as possible, but the recovery has just begun.

Torabani is slowly trying to get her life back together by compiling anything left of her property in hopes of starting a new life and rebuilding a new home. Some have been trying to recuperate by going back to their homes to see if anything is left while others have lost everything and are staying with relatives or in hotels for the time being.

"California stands ready to provide fire victims all the assistance they need to get their lives back on track. Even after the fires are extinguished, we will still be here to help fire victims in need," said Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger at a press release on October 27, 2007.

There are numerous ways to contribute. The American Red Cross takes cash donations at any location. Donations can also be made at the organization's Web cite, www.redcross.org. The Los Angeles Times Family Fund and KTLA Charities Fire Relief Campaign will take 100% of all donations plus match funds which will be granted to organizations to supporting the disaster response and recovery in Southern California. Their official website is www.mccormicktribune.org. On the website www.californiavolunteers.org, there are volunteer opportunities for everyone.

No matter where you live in California, you can research online for volunteer opportunities in your community. Many are not just in need of monetary donations such as money, but also items like clothes, shoes, home supplies and kitchen utilities. But one thing everyone can use is a helping hand. You are never to young or old to lend your help.

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