American Red Cross Disaster Program Opened an Evacuation Shelter in Fortuna

FORTUNA, Calif. (KIEM)- The American Red Cross opened an over night evacuation shelter in Fortuna last week at the Fireman’s Pavilion to help the people affected by the fires. 

The shelter is following all Covid protocols and health guidelines by requiring masks for all volunteers and evacuees. Many evacuees are staying in the shelter as well as bringing their RVs to the property. A large number of people evacuating to the area are staying with friends and family in Humboldt County. The volunteers at the Red Cross say it’s because areas surrounding Humboldt County have always been a place for people to come in cases of emergency, therefore many people come here prepared. 

“We’ve seen a slight increase over the past couple of days. We have a lot of people choosing to stay outside of the shelter, in their RVs. This is absolutely fine and they have full access to our services,” said Andrew Bogar, Red Cross Disaster Program Manager.