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Stamford, Conn. – Aug. 6, 2020 –Americares is sending more than four tons of medicine and relief supplies to California for families affected by the massive Apple Fire, which has scorched more than 27,000 acres and forced nearly 8,000 people in Riverside and San Bernardino counties from their homes. The blaze, which is believed to have started last Friday as three separate fires, was just 30 percent contained, as of yesterday morning.
“The Apple Fire has displaced thousands of people at a time when COVID-19 cases are rising throughout the state,” said Americares Vice President of Emergency Programs Kate Dischino. “Our No.1 priority is meeting the most immediate needs of survivors and health care providers during this double crisis.”
Americares is working with Unicare, a partner organization located in close proximity to the Apple Fire, to deliver medicines, face masks, hygiene products and other critically needed items for displaced families and health workers caring for patients affected by the fire. Americares has also offered assistance to partner health facilities in San Bernardino and Riverside counties, as well as national and regional response partners working in the affected areas.
Americares responds to approximately 30 natural disasters and humanitarian crises worldwide each year, establishes long-term recovery projects and brings disaster preparedness programs to vulnerable communities.
The health-focused relief and development organization has professional relief workers ready to respond to disasters at a moment’s notice and stocks emergency medicine and supplies in its warehouses in the U.S., Europe and India that can be delivered quickly in times of crisis. Americares has a long history of responding to emergencies in the U.S., including Hurricanes Harvey, Irma, Maria and Michael; the Joplin tornado; the Carr Fire; and most recently, the COVID-19 pandemic.
Since its founding more than 40 years ago, Americares has provided more than $18 billion in aid to 164 countries, including the United States.
Donations to Americares U.S. Disaster Relief Fund will support its response to the Apple Fire. To donate, go to americares.org/usdisasterfund