Oroville RV/Boat & Self Storage is collecting donations of cash and goods for victims of a fire that tore through the small community of Palermo, Calif., on June 10. The facility’s management team organized the facility as a donation drop-off center on Thursday, and in less than 24 hours, three storage units were filled with new and used household goods, clothing, furniture, toys, toiletries and non-perishable food items. In addition, the facility is offering two months of free storage to fire victims.
After getting an abundance of inquiries from neighbors regarding cash donations, site manager Connie Petersen set up a special bank account in partnership with the Red Cross. Donations should be made out to "Ophir Fire Relief Fund" at US Bank, 2110 Oro Dam Blvd., Oroville, CA 95965.
Other businesses are also providing assistance. Petersen said large donations have been made by Wal-Mart, Raley's, FoodMaxx and Pacific Coast Producers. In addition, child care for children ages 5 through 12 is available through the YMCA's day camp, 7 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. To make arrangements, fire victims should contact Celeste Silva, YMCA executive director, at 530.533.9622.
The fire broke out Tuesday morning on the east side of Highway 70 just south of Ophir Road and was quickly driven by high winds. More than 500 residents of the rural community were evacuated from their homes. Twenty-one homes as well as numerous outbuildings and vehicles were destroyed.
Goods can be dropped off or picked up at the facility through the end of June. At that time, any remaining donations will be given to the Red Cross for victims of this week’s fire in Humboldt, Calif. Facility hours are 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., seven days per week. The storage business is owned by Mike Cunningham and John O'Dea. For more information, visit www.orovillestorage.com.