The Borel fire has brought significant disruption and hardship to the communities around Lake Isabella, particularly affecting the small town of Havilah. As the community works tirelessly to recover and return to normalcy, the need for support has never been greater.
Impact of the Borel Fire
The fire led to widespread evacuations, with many residents displaced and seeking refuge with family members. While Lake Isabella homes were largely spared, the loss in Havilah was profound, leaving many to face the daunting task of rebuilding their lives.
Community Needs in the Aftermath
The aftermath of the Borel fire has highlighted many needs within our community, as explained by Yolanda, a dedicated volunteer at the Salvation Army. Many individuals found themselves urgently needing supplies while displaced from their homes during the evacuations. Yolanda highlighted a poignant example where a man, typically requesting food donations for two, found himself in need of provisions for nine as seven family members sought refuge with him due to the fire.
Meanwhile, residents of Havilah faced even more dire circumstances, having lost everything in the fire. The needs for these community members are extensive, requiring significant support and supplies to start rebuilding their lives.
Despite these hardships, the community’s solidarity has been remarkable. For instance, a local stepped up by paying for a fire victim’s car repair. Additionally, there is a notable demand for assistance with utility bills, a pressing concern for many who are struggling to restore normalcy in their lives.
On a single day, approximately 55 individuals sought help from the Salvation Army—ranging from the homeless to evacuated families and neighbors affected indirectly.
Our Contribution
Understanding the varied needs of those affected by the Borel fire, Delta Liquid Energy has taken a tailored approach to aid by donating gift cards to the Salvation Army. This method of support provides flexibility, allowing individuals and families to purchase the specific items they need most during this challenging time. Whether it’s replacing lost household goods, buying necessary food and hygiene products, or covering unexpected expenses, these gift cards are a vital resource in the hands of those rebuilding their lives.
By providing gift cards, we aim to empower those impacted by the fire, offering them not just assistance, but also the dignity of choice in their recovery process. It’s our way of saying we’re here for you, not just as a service provider, but as a committed community partner.
Current Efforts and How to Help
Gift cards are among the most useful donations, providing flexibility to meet diverse and changing needs. Non-perishable and perishable food items, personal hygiene items, and basics like toilet paper and toothbrushes are also valuable.
The Salvation Army is actively distributing food and addressing extra needs as they arise. Yolanda highlights that while they are equipped with seven refrigerators to store perishable donations, potential donors should call ahead to confirm space availability. The best way to call ahead is by calling Yolanda at (760) 223-1608.
Community and Business Collaborations
The local response to the fire has been a testament to the community’s resilience and compassion. “We all come together, and everyone has something to provide,” Yolanda notes. Collaborations with local businesses, like our own efforts at Delta Liquid Energy play a crucial role in enhancing the capacity of organizations like the Salvation Army to deliver aid where it is most needed.
A Message of Gratitude
To those who have contributed to the recovery efforts, Yolanda expresses profound gratitude: “THANK YOU, because you go way beyond.” Every bit of help adds to a larger movement to rebuild and restore the community’s spirit and livelihood.
Staying Local: A Unique Focus on Community Needs
Unlike typical Salvation Army branches that include thrift stores and broader service offerings, our Lake Isabella office operates uniquely as an extension office. This special setup means there is no thrift store or other typical facilities; instead, the office is dedicated solely to addressing and meeting the immediate needs of the community. “Everything stays here in our community and the Kern River Valley,” Yolanda points out. This focus ensures that all support and donations directly benefit the locals, providing targeted help where it’s most needed.
Our Commitment
At Delta Liquid Energy, our dedication extends beyond providing reliable propane services; we are deeply committed to supporting the communities we serve, especially in times of crisis. Recognizing the profound impact of the Borel fire on our neighbors, we have partnered with the Salvation Army to contribute effectively to the recovery efforts.