Each one helps the other, saying to one another, “Take courage!” –Isaiah 41:6
Dear members and friends,
It has been deeply saddening and disturbing to watch the fires and listen to the news of how much devastation they have caused and are still causing. At the same time, it has been a truly humbling experience to clearly re-acknowledge that when facing the force of the nature, there isn’t much we can do. To be honest, I do not know where to begin to understand how our neighbors in the north and south are feeling as they face the harsh reality of burnt homes and lost loved ones. Yet, the one thing I certainly do know is how it feels to lose hope when it seems there is nothing and no one left to live for. To our neighbors in the north and the south, I would like to share this passage from Isaiah, “Each one helps the other, saying to one another, ‘Take courage!’” It may be just a small comfort, but we are here to help. And as life goes on, with courage and hope in God you will rebuild your home and life.
To our friends who are not directly affected by the fires, I would like to encourage you to do something/anything that you can to help our neighbors.
Following is a list of resources for donations and volunteering efforts:
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- California Community Foundation’s Wildfire Relief Fund: Supports victims by helping to rebuild homes and providing financial assistance to those who need medical and mental treatment.
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North Valley Community Foundation: Fund goes to support the needs of the evacuation centers who opened their doors to house fire victims who lost their homes or had to evacuate.
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North Valley Animal Disaster Group: Works jointly with public and private agencies and organizations in the area to provide for the safety and well-being of all domestic animals and farm animals, including wildlife, affected by a disaster. This includes assistance with emergency temporary shelter, evacuation, and medical care.
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The Airbnb Evacuee Program is looking for people with available housing to provide shelter for evacuees who have been forced from their homes.
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KQED offers even more resources for giving and volunteering on their website.
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Blessings, Rev. Junchol Lee