Tea Fire and Sympathy
Help: How to Give It, How to Get It
With so many of their fellow citizens put out by the Tea Fire, some Santa Barbara residents may be wondering how they can help out. They can, fortunately, by donating to certain humanitarian aide organizations and charities. However, these groups aren’t necessarily ready to accept whatever anyone decides to drop off – certain groups are requesting specific donations.
Check below for who’s offering what and who needs what. (Note: This is not a complete list of all active relief efforts, but an overview of the major ones. If know you of any that are not listed, send them to news@independent.com.)
The Unity Shoppe is accepting donations of cash and new clothes to aide Tea Fire victims. After Christmas, Unity Shoppe staff will also be asking for donations of new furniture. The Unity Shoppe is located at 1219 State St. Call them at (805) 886-2323 or visit unityshoppe.org.
The Santa Barbara chapter of the Salvation Army is accepting cash donations. It is also seeking volunteers for various aid efforts. To donate or volunteer, call (805) 684-6099 or visit salvationarmy.org/santabarbara.
El Montecito Presbyterian Church is accepting donations of cash and clothing. These can be dropped off at 1455 E. Valley Rd. The church is also organizing work parties that will head out on Saturday, November 22, to help families collect items from the rubble. The church asks that anyone wanting to volunteer for this give notice before Saturday by calling (805) 969-5041 or emailing church@elmopres.org.
The Santa Barbara Foundation is partnering with the United Way for its Tea Fire relief effort. However, people can still donate to the United Way via the foundation by stopping in at Santa Barbara Bank & Trust’s location at 20 E. Carrillo St.
The Santa Barbara chapter of Habitat for Humanity is collaborating with the Red Cross in helping Tea Fire victims.
The Santa Barbara Humane Society has hosted 105 cats, 55 dogs, and many other animals since the Tea Fire broke out. Animals belonging to people who have lost their homes are still being held at the 5399 Overpass Rd. location. It is coordinating with Santa Barbara County Animal Services for donations and seeking such items as food, blankets, and collars. For more information, call 964-4777.
The Santa Barbara Yoga Center has received donations for Tea Fire victims, including clothing and articles for the bedroom and bath. Those in need are encouraged to stop by between 8:30 a.m. and 8:30 p.m. at its location at 32 E. Micheltorena St. or visit santabarbarayogacenter.com.
