What the Community can do to Support Napa Valley Fire Recovery Efforts

Starting on the evening of October 8th, Napa County has been a part of the most devastating wildfires in California State history.

The Napa Valley Community Organizations Active in Disaster (COAD) was developed through a grant from the Napa Valley Vintners and Napa Valley Community Foundation following the 2014 earthquake.  The goal is to enhance partnerships for communication, coordination, and collaboration amongst the whole community, including nonprofit and faith-based organizations, government agencies, and the private sector during all three (3) phases of a disaster: Phase 1, emergency response to protect life and property response; Phase 2, assessment of mid-term needs; and Phase 3, re-population mode for long- term recovery.

This means we have a well-trained coalition to help our community recover faster.

Our strength is drawing on the resources held by members of the disaster assistance network to achieve these aims. We have collectively learned from past events and developed a sustained approach that is incorporated into the day-to-day activities of all members of the disaster assistance network.

The Napa Valley COAD helps ensure donations received have the greatest impact on those in need by managing and prioritizing them, with an emphasis on achieving the best results for longer-term rebuilding efforts.

We have completed Phase 1, supported by first responders, the government, and local agencies in response to the wildfires. In Phase 2, we are transitioning to address mid-term needs in our community that benefit most from financial assistance. At this time, monetary donations are being requested by those who have lost homes, employment, wages, or who have ongoing health needs.

YOUR BIGGEST IMPACT WILL BE IN PHASE 3.

When we enter Phase 3 in the next 2-4 months, our community will confront a number of complex issues tied to rebuilding and reconstruction; economic redevelopment; and the reconstitution of social networks. In addition to monetary donations, the restoration of homes and businesses will need assistance with material in-kind donations and volunteers to help residents in re-establishing their lives.

We are fortunate to live in a country that is so giving. Your pledges of giving are key in shaping the rebuilding of our community. Here are ways you can help now.

  1. Monetary donations are our greatest need, and can be made to:
  1. To sign up as a volunteer to help with disaster recovery or to be registered as an emergency volunteer (you will be contacted when needed) sign up here.

For more information about requested in-kind donations and the timeline for delivery, please contact Jim Tomlinson at jtomlinson@cvnl.org.

Thank you for your generosity and support.
– The CVNL Team