United Way of Ventura County update for April 19

Dear Friends,

I wanted to share with you a story of one of the many people who have received hardship assistance from the United Way Thomas Fire and Flood Fund. Erik’s story is one of hope.
After the power went out at his Victoria Avenue home on December 5, Erik wandered outside to investigate the constant emergency sirens. He found the nearby hills glowing orange with flames from the Thomas Fire. Once back inside, he  barely had time to throw some of his most precious possessions (pets, and some of his original paintings) into his RV and make a hasty escape as the vegetation around him burst into flames.

In addition to losing his home, Erik’s business also suffered a severe blow. As an artist working under the name “Vajra,” Erik prints his designs onto clothing and other items to sell online and at festivals. However, his stock, art supplies, and 15 of his original paintings, along with all his other possessions, went up in smoke. Fortunately, with assistance from the United Way Thomas Fire and Flood Fund, Erik has been able to buy back some stock for his business and continue selling and fulfilling orders.

“The United Way definitely made it easier and faster to recover,” he said.

Along with helping his business get back up and running, he said that the assistance he has received from throughout the community has raised his spirits. He’s now back in studio, focusing on creating new artwork, including a new series focused on the mythical phoenix, which rises from the ashes. He is even mixing in ashes from his former home into his paint to create the series.

Being able provide financial assistance to those who need it has been incredibly rewarding, and we’re so grateful to be working with our responsive partners to make the process as simple as possible. We’re looking forward to hearing from more residents as we continue to distribute these relief funds. If you or someone you know are seeking hardship assistance as a result of the Thomas Fire, please visit

vcunitedway.org to view the application and criteria.