Dear Ventura County Community Foundation Family,
As we face one of the most devastating fire seasons in our region’s history, our hearts are with all those impacted by the fires across Los Angeles County and here in Ventura County. Please know you are not alone, and if you or a loved one need support, please reach out to 2-1-1 or complete this needs assessment if you are in Ventura County. A team of local nonprofits is working collaboratively together and are standing by to help.
Your community foundation is committed to raising funds to address the immediate and long-term needs of those most impacted by the recent Mountain Fire, while remaining prepared to respond to other disaster-related challenges across Ventura County. 100% of all contributions go directly to those most affected and local nonprofits supporting those most in need.
We are also committed to supporting our sister community foundations, the California Community Foundation and the Pasadena Community Foundation, as they work in solidarity to help thousands of community members who have lost their homes in Los Angeles County. We have received several direct contributions through VCCF to support affected families in Los Angeles and will be sending 100% of those contributions to our sister community foundations.
• Visit Philanthropy California to learn more about statewide disaster relief efforts.
• Read the Emergency Preparedness guide for Ventura County business owners and nonprofits.
• Subscribe to our Power of Purpose newsletter to stay informed.
• Donate to the Ventura County Wildfire Relief and Recovery Fund here.
Ventura County Wildfire Relief and Recovery Fund
This fund has been pivotal in supporting families and nonprofits affected by the Mountain Fire, which burned 19,904 acres and destroyed 132 structures. To date, the fund has granted $975,313, providing individual financial assistance and addressing critical needs such as:
• Temporary housing and medical equipment replacement.
• Emergency childcare and financial assistance for families who lost homes.
• Support for farmworkers, including over $50,000 for those who lost work and housing.
• Covering evacuation costs for more than 450 animals, and veterinary bills for injured pets from families who lost homes.
805 UndocuFund
The 805 UndocuFund continues to be a vital resource for undocumented families affected by the Mountain Fire and other disasters. Its most recent impact includes:
• Financial assistance for 178 households, totaling $78,000.
• Essential needs support, in partnership with Food Share of Ventura County, distributing $2,765 in gift cards to farmworkers.
• In-person clinics providing over 125 staff hours to assist families directly.
Ricardo, an 805 UndocuFund recipient, shared, “I thank you from the bottom of my heart for the great help you gave me. I work in the field. I hope you continue to support us. Thank you very much.” Please contribute to the 805 UndocuFund here.
Looking Ahead
With fire weather persisting and Public Safety Power Shutoffs becoming more frequent, we encourage everyone to stay prepared. Resources for preparation and real-time updates can be found at VC Emergency. We also highly recommend the Watch Duty app, which is a nonprofit based in Northern California.
If you are experiencing financial hardships caused by the Ventura County disasters, please complete 211 Interface’s confidential needs assessment.
Thank you again for all your help and support. Please help us spread the word and we promise to keep you informed. Your unwavering support for one another inspires us every day. Together, we can provide hope, relief and recovery for those in need.
