Local Assistance Center available for Beckwourth, Dixie Fire victims

By Ken Donnell

Special to Plumas News

Today is the first day of operation for a “pop-up” Local Assistance Center (LAC) event for refugees and other persons impacted by the Beckwourth and Dixie fires.  This LAC event is being held at the at the old Plumas County Probation Center, 1446 East Main St. in Quincy (next to the Sheriff’s department in East Quincy).  This event will run today, tomorrow, and through Saturday (Aug. 7) from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. each day.  This is a great opportunity for anyone displaced or impacted by local wildfires to receive information, register with local, state and federal relief agencies, possibly receive immediate assistance, and begin to make plans for long-term recovery.

While the persons providing information and relief at this event are highly professional, there is a relaxed and personal mood to everything happening.  This LAC event is very well organized,  and there is a clear flow of traffic through the maze of tables staffed by representatives from approximately 20 agencies and organizations.   This event clearly has a “ Plumas County feeling,” which is in sharp contrast to similar events I have attended where the lines are long, the service can be impersonal, and the information limited.

Attendance today was light at first, but steadily increased as the day progressed.  But even with the increased attendance, there was never a long wait to get started receiving help from persons on staff.

The Red Cross is setting up a number for people to call to do virtual casework, in case they cannot get to a LAC.  The number is 855-755-7711. The Red Cross was unsure of when it would be operational.

There will be a follow up story tomorrow with more information about this LAC event to help persons displaced or impacted by local wildfires.