The American Red Cross is on the ground in Southern California; Forest fires continue

The American Red Cross is on the ground in Southern California, where severe wildfires continue to ravage the state this week, forcing thousands of evacuations.

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More than 200 trained Red Cross disaster responders across the country are helping along the way, including several from Central Florida.

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Local volunteers have traveled (by plane) to Los Angeles to support relief efforts for at least two weeks.

• Frank Hall, Tampa Bay Chapter, is responsible for logistics and distribution of emergency supplies

• Marjorie Pedro, USVI chapter based in St. Croix, will be in charge of housing

• Gwendolyn O’Garrow, USVI chapter based in St. Croix, will be in charge of housing

• Jim Martin, Greater Orlando Chapter based in Orlando, is in charge of housing

• Jerry Salsburg, Greater Orlando Chapter based in Orlando, is in charge of housing.

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Today hundreds of evacuees woke up in shelters, many of them struggling after losing everything.

The Red Cross works closely with our partners to provide safe housing, food, emotional support and other essential services to those in need.

Read: LA fire chief at center of public dispute with City Hall as wildfires rage

The threat is not over yet. As the situation evolves, people must remain vigilant, prepare to evacuate and follow the instructions of local authorities.

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