Report on HSS/VHPA/Bharati Tamil Sangam's Seva for CA Camp Fire victims

HSS, VHPA and Bharati Tamil Sangam came together to serve CA Camp Fire victims

On Nov 24, 2018, approximately 12 volunteers from the three organizations got together in SF Bay Area and collected essential supplies for the fire victims. The supplies included clothes, blankets, non-perishable & healthy food, hygiene products etc., The volunteers delivered the supplies at the Oroville distribution center. The Oroville center was a high efficiency system that rapidly collected, sorted, repacked the items that are needed for specific communities.

One group of volunteers decided to help the distribution center in sorting and repacking. Another group of volunteers went to FEMA's emergency management center at Chico Mall to volunteer and help the victims.

There depending upon the needs of the victims, volunteers distributed gift cards which were much appreciated as this help the specific needs of the community. Though the victims lost everything including their homes, they showed quiet dignity and patience which were very humbling for the volunteers.

VHP of America also met with the President and Secretary of the CAL Fire Foundation, a leading philanthropic organization that was helping the fire victims and donated $1000 and a set of Starbuck gift cards for the fire fighters as a token of respect.