USA (MNN) ― For the first time in a week, firefighters in Southern California seem to be getting the upper hand in fighting the wildfires. The fires scorched 500,000 drought-stricken acres and displaced close to a million people.
It's the largest mass migration in the U.S. since Hurricane Katrina and more than were evacuated during the 2003 San Diego wildfires--previously considered California's worst. Property damage has reached at least $1 billion in San Diego County alone, and President Bush signed a major disaster declaration for California.
Many of the displaced are in a state of shock. Although the region boasts expensive real estate, there's a large segment of the population who will find it nearly impossible to recover from the fires.
"Churches always serve as a first response for people to turn to in times of crisis," says World Vision's Jo Carcedo (carSAYdo). She says they're partnering with their church network to help those left destitute by the fires.
"We have personal care items, hygiene, diapers, things that people need most immediately in crises like this where frequently they have to vacate their homes. We're working through our networks to bring those resources as they may be needed."
The initial shipment also included tents, cooking sets, a water purification system, bottled water, face mask filters and clothing. Their team is also assessing the further needs of vulnerable, low-income populations who might not have ready-access to insurance or other resources.
It's times like these when the spiritual needs become evident, too. "One of the things that World Vision does particularly well is engage people in a way that's supportive of the crises and some of the concerns that they have. We also walk with them on their journey, as many of them might be reaching out to God, perhaps for the first time."
Pray that the fires in Southern California will
cease. Pray also for those affected by the fires, including families driven
from their homes, those who may face loss of livelihood, children, the elderly,
and others vulnerable to respiratory problems because of poor air quality. Click here if you can help.
