LAKE COUNTY, Calif. – Samaritan’s Purse, an international, nondenominational Christian disaster relief organization, has set up headquarters in Clearlake, ready to help victims of the Valley fire, which recently destroyed hundreds of homes in south Lake County.
Volunteers, many of whom have travel across the country to join the relief effort, are organized and prepared to help victims sift through the ashes and recover from the worst fire disaster in county history.
“We are here to help victims sift through their belongs and salvage anything they can from this fire,” Jonathan Blevins, Samaritan’s Purse program manager. “We've found grandma's jewelry before, wedding rings, war medal Purple Hearts. Sometimes we even salvage some of the dishes so they can something to start with in their recovery.”
Blevins said the most important task at hand is reaching homeowners who may need the help of the organization.
“That’s who we really need to reach now. If someone's home was burned down, we would love for our teams to come out and help them,” he said.
Volunteers assist with personal property recovery and packing, placing tarps on fire-damaged homes, cutting down burnt trees and cleaning up debris, according to Blevins.
Blevins said the service is provided, at no charge, to homeowners who have little to no insurance as well as those who may have damage not covered by the homeowner's policies.
Requests are handled on a first-come, first-served basis depending on need and volunteer availability.
Blevins said site leadership teams will direct each operation. He said the leadership teams consist of a core group of volunteers from across the country who have been specially trained in recovery and safety procedures.
Additionally, all local volunteers will be provided with a safety orientation course, he said.
“A lot of our volunteers do this because it gives them an opportunity to give back. It gives local volunteers an opportunity to give back as well,” Blevins said. “Other volunteers do this because we are commanded by Jesus to help people in need.”
Blevins said Samaritan’s Purse will remain in the community as long as the need and requests for assistance exist.
“People are hurting spiritually. People are hurting emotionally and we can kind of help them see there is a light at the end of the tunnel,” he said. “We will be here as long as we have work orders to fill.”
Samaritan’s Purse has established its headquarters at Harvest Fellowship Church, 6201 Bay St. in Clearlake.
Those needing assistance and those who would like to volunteer are encouraged to call 707-239-1723; or contact Blevins directly at 828-358-0386.
Visit the Samaritan's Purse Web site or Facebook page for more information about the organization.
Email reporter Denise Rockenstein at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. .