Campfire Gift of Tools

Contributed by Doug Brown

On November 8th the deadly Camp fire began in northern California. By the time it was out it had totally destroyed the towns of Paradise, Magalia, and Concow. *It killed 86 people and left 50,000 homeless with only the clothes on their backs – every other possession gone. While FEMA and Red Cross have been very active, a Facebook page was also set up (Paradise Fire Adopt a Family). The response has been amazing, The page has over 30,000 followers, survivors and helpers from all over the country.

Bill Warne and I used the page to wonderful benefit when we traveled to Chico with $23,400 on behalf of the local disaster foundation, Global Uplift, and the Corral de Tierra Rotary. Using this Facebook page we reached out to 30 workers and resupplied them with tools. To a person they indicated an intent to help neighbors for free while also earning an income. With that income they now are earning money to help support their own recovery (as well as improve the local economy). I have seen so very many times people who have lost everything there working tirelessly to help others get back on their feet.

Bill and I are continuing our efforts. We are now working to get a truck full of used tools and chainsaws to take back up to the area. If you have tools to donate, please contact me at philaty@hotmail.com, or 831-484-9849