While well meaning, grievers/people experiencing loss usually don’t have the capacity to think beyond the immediate pain, so offering something specific or taking concrete action can be incredibly helpful
There are many volunteer efforts, go-fund-mes, etc going on, but here are some immediate more 1-on-1 type things you can do directly if you have fam or a friend you want to help out that could be helpful from what I’m seeing here:
Food: Many places are offering food but it may be challenging to get. some ppl don’t have transportation, have kids & scared animals, are disabled, food allergies, etc. Gift cards for groceries, Postmates (yes, I know they have unethical practices so, do what you feel is best!) are helpful
Pets: If local, offer to watch pets or walk them while person runs errands.
Evacuees that are lucky enough to have a home to return to at some point, however much of what’s in that home has smoke damage, dangerous ash & soot, so things like pet beds, some toys, cat trees etc will need replacing.
Another thing I’m hearing is people are terrified to leave their pets alone out of fear that no one will rescue them if another fire starts. So offering to watch them, check on them in weeks/months to come may help to alleviate that anxiety for some folks
Comments
Evacuees that are lucky enough to have a home to return to at some point, however much of what’s in that home has smoke damage, dangerous ash & soot, so things like pet beds, some toys, cat trees etc will need replacing.