As many of you know, we are in the midst of the devastating North Bay Fires. It has been our biggest nightmare here in Wine Country as our brave first responders continue to battle multiple fires which have now burned over 190,000 acres. 25,000 people have been evacuated and as of today there have been 31 deaths. It has been an unbelievable past few days, truly heartbreaking.
I want to extend a huge thank you to all of your outpouring of love and support and for checking in on my family in Sonoma. I am currently in San Francisco, but my parents are sticking it out in Sonoma as our home is in the center of town away from harm (for now). We are trying to stay as positive as humanly possible as our brave firefighters try to contain these wildfires that have caused so much devastation already.
Its been a very hard last few days for many and unfortunately its not over. The fires are moving, its the most terrifying feeling and I’m sure many are experiencing the same. All we have left to do is pray that we can get this under control soon.
A lot of you have messaged me on how you can help. Right now, the evacuation centers don’t need anymore supplies as they are completely full (which makes me so happy to hear). They do need money and resources for the future as this will be a long road for many. Below are a few ways to donate:
- Airbnb has launched its Open Homes program for those seeking shelter free-of-charge at a residence outside of but near the affected area. The company is also looking for those willing to volunteer space at their local home for evacuees.
- You can donate to the Red Cross, which helps distribute disaster relief aid. In addition to online donations, you can also call 1-800 RED CROSS or text REDCROSS to 90999 to make a $10 donation.
- Jake Kloberdanz, a local winery owner, also started a GoFundMe campaign to raise money for fire and rescue organizations.
- GoFundMe has put together a centralized location for all the fundraising campaigns supporting relief efforts here.
- The Napa Valley Community Disaster Relief Fund is collecting cash donations here.
- Donate to food pantries: Redwood Empire Food Bank, Food pantries of Napa County, and Food pantries of Sonoma County.
- Donate to local animal shelters, which are helping people keep their pets safe. Humane Society of Sonoma County: sonomahumane.org, Humane Society of Napa County: napahumane.org,
- Last but certainly not least is a personal one for me. My close friend Pauline and her family lost everything. Please help them recover. Here is their go-fund me page.
Most of all THANK YOU TO OUR FIRST RESPONDERS FOR YOUR TIRELESS EFFORTS!
Please keep Sonoma and Napa Counties in your thoughts, we need it more then ever. xo
