Butte-Glenn VOAD network took part in Thompson Fire response

CHICO, Calif. — "Unfortunately, we are good at disaster," Hilary Crosby said.

Crosby is the Chair of Butte-Glenn Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (VOAD). The group, formed following the 2018 Camp Fire, gathers organizations that respond to disaster in the short- and long term.

Crosby says when the Thompson Fire broke out last week, they had a long list of local organizations ready to mobilize if needed.

"Touching base with the county [Emergency Operations Center] liaison is kind of where we start and just say 'hey checking in if you need anything let us know' and then on the backside we’re making sure we’re touching base with our partner organizations so United Way and the Red Cross."

Crosby says about two dozen organizations are part of the effort, in collaboration with the county, including the Hope Center in Oroville and Haven of Hope on Wheels, which is offering showers.

"It’s not about spontaneous volunteers but about organizations that have volunteer bases...we can draw on that people power," Crosby said.

She adds that the Tiny Pine Foundation also helped to shelter people with functional needs in hotels. The county estimates about 17,000 people were evacuated in total.

"At the end of the day, it’s what can we do. We all feel nervous, PTSD is kicking in with this fire and so finding ways to get busy with our hands is sometimes how we do it," she said.

Crosby encourages those who want to volunteer in disaster response to get involved with groups with established volunteer bases.

More information can be found online on their website.