URGENT HELP NEEDED—I just received word that requests for supplies for fire victims (especially food, water, and clothing) are growing throughout the county as the amount of donations has dropped off significantly. Hundreds of people who were too afraid or unable to evacuate earlier in the week have now begun to ask for help, as the situation in our rural areas is dire.

At this point, the Chicano Park collection site has almost nothing, and they are receiving calls from Pala, Valley Center, Potrero, and other communities where the “mainstream” relief efforts have been slow or nonexistent.

PLEASE SPREAD THE WORD and drop off a donation if you can (see details below). Thank you so very much for ALL your help and kindness!

P.S. Many people have not been able to change clothes since Tuesday, so there is a specific need right now for clean socks and new underwear—for men, women, and children in all sizes. Thanks again…

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Thursday, Oct. 25, 2007
Contact re: Donations—Joni K. Craig, (619) 549-8082 (English)
(Please CALL before sending reporters or cameras)
Contact re: Displaced Farm Workers—Enrique Morones, (619) 269-7865 (English & Spanish)

FORGOTTEN FIRE VICTIMS NEED HELP

Relief efforts continue for the forgotten victims of San Diego’s firestorm—those unable to reach established evacuation centers. Food, water, and other supplies are still desperately needed by farm workers, day laborers, service employees, and impoverished families in Potrero, Escondido, and various communities throughout the county. The following items can be dropped off at Chicano Park on Logan Avenue under the Coronado Bridge (5 Freeway, Cesar Chavez exit) from 8 am-7 pm on Friday and Saturday:

Non-perishable food (preferably items which don’t need to be cooked)
Water / Juice
Blankets / Sleeping bags
Tents / Canopies / Tarps (for shade)
Eye drops / Face masks
Toiletries / Feminine hygiene products / First aid supplies
Sunscreen / Hats / Sunglasses
Baby products (diapers, formula, food, etc.)
Activities for children (books, games, toys, etc.)
Small- to medium-sized boxes for sorting & transporting supplies

Much-needed monetary contributions can be mailed to: Border Angels, P.O. Box 86598, San Diego, CA 92138 (please write “Fire Victims’ Relief” on the memo line). Additionally, volunteers with trucks or other large vehicles are needed to help transport supplies.

This is a grassroots effort organized by members of M.A.P.A., Border Angels, Chicano Park, Gente Unida, House of Mexico, Western Service Workers Association, and many other organizations and individuals concerned with those most in need during this time of crisis.