United Way to Distribute $1.5M to Assist SoCal Disaster Victims through April; Victim Applications Open

VENTURA COUNTY, Calif., Feb. 14, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Disaster victims can apply for the next phase of relief funding through the United Way Thomas Fire and Flood Fund, which has grown to more than $3.7 million. Through April 30, United Way of Ventura County (UWVC) will be releasing as much as $1.5 million from the fund for individual hardship assistance.

From Feb. 19-March 15, application forms for victims will be available at vcunitedway.org or 211ventura.org. Applicants can also call 2-1-1 or text "ThomasFire" to 898-211 to find out more. Local partnering agencies will assess each applicant's needs and eligibility.

"The outpouring of support has been incredible, and we're so proud to be able to get these funds out to help residents who have lost so much," said Eric Harrison, President & CEO of United Way of Ventura County. "We have a long way to go to rebuild our community, but nobody is in it alone. Whether you lost a home, income, or have been impacted in another way, I encourage you to give 2-1-1 a call and learn more about the resources that are being extended."

Eligible applicants for individual hardship assistance must be Ventura County residents. Eligibility will be based on household income limits, determined by family size of 120% AMI or less. Funds will support residents in expenses related to housing, livelihood/income and habitability of their homes.

The United Way Thomas Fire and Flood Fund recently grew thanks to a $100,000 gift from AT&T and $150,000 from Bank of America. To provide immediate assistance in December from the fund, $500 prepaid credit cards went out to up to 1,000 residents whose homes were destroyed by the Thomas Fire.

United Way of Ventura County and United Way of Santa Barbara County formed a strategic partnership vital in helping the community recover from the Thomas Fire. The fund was later expanded to also assist flood victims and $500,000 was given for assistance in Santa Barbara County.

How to give:

• Online at www.unitedwaythomasfirefund.org
• By texting UWVC to 41444
• By phone or mail: call (805) 485-6288 or checks may be sent to the United Way office at 702 County Square Drive, Suite 100, Ventura, CA 93003. Please write "Thomas Fire Fund" in the memo.

About United Way of Ventura County
Since 1945, United Way of Ventura County has advanced the common good by creating opportunities for a better life for all. Our focus is on education, income and health, because these are the building blocks for a good quality of life. We support local services and programs that are more than just 'stop gap' measures, but rather solutions that help create lasting change. We invite everyone to be part of the change by giving, advocating and volunteering. When we work together in common purpose, we LIVE UNITED. For more information about United Way of Ventura County, visit www.vcunitedway.org.

SOURCE United Way Thomas Fire Fund

Related Links

http://www.vcunitedway.org