LAKEPORT, Calif. – North Coast Opportunities has established distribution centers in Lake and Mendocino counties to provide sustenance to those who were impacted by the Mendocino Complex fire.

Since August, NCO’s Lake County Distribution Center has distributed goods to more than 400 families by providing a variety of items, such as food, cleaning kits, clothing, diapers, wipes and masks. Available items change daily.

“One of the large issues facing Mendocino Complex fire survivors is that this fire has brought on its own set of circumstances. Thousands of families were evacuated for an extended period resulting in financial distress,” said NCO Executive Director Patty Bruder. “These distribution centers are intended to help those impacted by providing replacement items quickly.”

The Lake County distribution center is located on 785 Bevins St. in Lakeport and is open Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. After-hour appointments are available by contacting Tammy Alakszay at 707-972-0519.

The Mendocino County Distribution Center is open at 8465 East Road in Redwood Valley. The center is open daily, please call Danilla Sands for hours at 707-621-8817.

NCO disaster case managers are also available to provide information, resources, and support. Contact a Lake County disaster case manager at 707-994-2910 or a Mendocino County disaster case manager at 707-621-8817.

NCO’s 2018 Wildfire Relief Fund continues to support survivors by assisting those facing financial hardship by providing monetary aid. The application deadline was Sept. 14.

As of Friday, Sept. 14, 57 fire survivors suffering a total home loss received a $1,000 check whereas 22 fire survivors suffering a partial home loss received a $500 check.

NCO received over 1,000 applications for fire relief. NCO’s Disaster Response Team will continue prioritizing total and partial loss applications and if funds remain, NCO will aid those who suffered evacuation losses.

NCO serves as a critical link for fire survivors and was recognized as Nonprofit of the Year in 2018 by State Sen. Mike McGuire after their work in previous fire relief efforts.

NCO is now in its fifth year of responding to fires and remains devoted to supporting Lake and Mendocino counties rebuild. NCO advocates on the behalf of low-income and disadvantaged people by developing and providing services that strengthen our communities, one person at a time.