In conjunction with in Ventura County, the American Red Cross intends to close the evacuation shelter at the Ventura Fairgrounds Friday, Dec. 22 at 3:00 p.m.

The shelter opened on Dec. 4 for residents who were evacuating the Thomas Fire. Red Cross workers will continue assisting those affected by the fire. The Red Cross opens and closes shelters at the request of local officials.

The Red Cross plays a critical role in helping families and communities get back on their feet in the weeks and months after a disaster. Trained Red Cross caseworkers connect one-on-one with people to help them navigate what often can be a confusing, complicated and time-consuming world of disaster recovery.

All American Red Cross disaster assistance is provided free of charge and is made possible by the voluntary donations of time and money from caring individuals and corporate partners.

HOW TO GET HELP
The Red Cross has a Client Assistance Center open in Ventura for anyone who has suffered damage due to the wildfires. The Client Assistance Center is located inside the Ventura County Credit Union at 6026 Telephone Dr., Ventura from 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. The facility will be closed Dec. 24 and 25 and will reopen Tuesday, Dec. 26. A pop-up Client Assistance Center will be open Friday, Dec. 22 at the Ojai Public Library located at 111 E Ojai Ave, Ojai, CA from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Red Cross workers will be conducting client casework and distributing cleaning supplies. Residents seeking assistance are asked to bring proof of residency, and if possible, a photo ID. It is not mandatory, but it will help speed up the process.

For more information, contact the Red Cross client casework line at (512) 745-2920.

HOW TO HELP
You can help people affected by disasters such as floods, fires, tornadoes and hurricanes by making a donation to support American Red Cross Disaster Relief. For more information, visit redcross.org/donate.

HOW TO VOLUNTEER
Regardless of where disaster strikes, the local Red Cross is already in place, ready to
respond immediately. Aid is routed and distributed by local Red Cross volunteers with
intimate knowledge of the area and needs. Learn more about becoming a Red Cross volunteer or sign up today at redcross.org/volunteer.

About the American Red Cross:
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies about 40 percent of the nation's blood; teaches skills that save lives; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a not-for-profit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or cruzrojaamericana.org, or visit us on Twitter at @RedCross.