Courtesy photo.
CONEJO VALLEY — Las Virgenes Fire Relief (LV Fire Relief) has partnered with Mama Haven, a Conejo Valley non-profit organization, to provide long-term recovery assistance to local residents displaced by the Woolsey Fire. Immediately following the fire, LV Fire Relief gathered hundreds of volunteers to create and staff a temporary donation center in Agoura Hills. “I knew the affected residents of our community would need help right away,” said Jenn Kurtz, founder of LV Fire Relief, “so we had to take swift action.” At the center, fire-affected residents could collect new clothing, toys, and basic household items donated by neighbors and local companies. The location also became a place for the community to gather.
LV Fire Relief’s physical location closed in January, but the group continues to collect financial donations online. “We’re joining forces with Mama Haven because their network and knowledge of local resources will help us support those in need,” says Kurtz. The two organizations will also produce events and create other ways for people to donate and help fire-impacted residents to rebuild their lives.
LV Fire Relief also partnered with the Southeast Ventura County YMCA and the Las Virgenes Unified School District (LVUSD) to launch a fundraising campaign. In December and January, LV Fire Relief, the YMCA, and LVUSD worked together to distribute individual grants to over 115 families. “The YMCA’s mission is to build relationships, impact lives and strengthen the community,” said Ronnie Stone, CEO/President of the Southeast Ventura County YMCA. “It was our honor to work together with LV Fire Relief and LVUSD to provide immediate financial assistance to our community during this time of extreme need.”
For more information about LV Fire Relief or to donate, visit lvfirerelief.org.