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With two big contributions from long-established local businesses, the Granville Homes Creek Fire Relief Fund eclipsed its $50,000 goal for the American Red Cross of Central California in just two days.
As of 4:30 p.m. Friday, local individuals and businesses had donated $27,883 to help residents displaced by the Creek Fire in the foothill and mountain communities of Fresno and Madera counties.
Granville Homes is matching the first $25,000 in contributions dollar-for-dollar, moving the total to $52,883.
Caglia Environmental of Fresno pushed the fundraising effort past its goal on Friday with a $10,000 donation. And, Johanson Transportation Service of Fresno gave $5,000 on Friday.
“We have had friends, family, and employees displaced by this fire,” said Richard Caglia, the corporate development officer for the Caglia Family companies. “I have a family member working a dozer up there. I was thinking about the best course to help the community and it’s the Red Cross.”
The Red Cross is providing support services to those displaced by the fire, which has so far burned nearly 176,00 acres and destroyed 365 structures.
Cal Fire officials say that 12,000 residents have been evacuated from the Creek Fire, along with an estimated 30,000 visitors. tourists, and hikers. The fire began last Friday evening at the start of the Labor Day weekend, when the Sierra National Forest traditionally is jammed with visitors.
The displaced residents are from communities in the path of the fire, including Shaver Lake, Big Creek, Auberry, Huntington Lake, North Fork, and Bass Lake, among others.
“We’re grateful for the incredible support we have received from Valley residents to help our neighbors at a critical time of need,” said Darius Assemi, president/CEO of Granville Homes and publisher of GV Wire.
“Despite all the political division in our country, our Valley has come together to help those displaced by the Creek Fire. Let Fresno serve as an example to the rest of the nation on what love and passion for your community can accomplish.”