The California Citrus Research Board (CRB) and California Citrus Mutual (CCM) are calling for help for the fire-ravaged town of Niland, near the Salton Sea in Southern California. Niland is a very small desert town that was home to many agricultural workers who worked in citrus groves in the region. One person died. Some 40 homes were destroyed, many more were severely damaged, and about 2,000 people are now displaced or homeless.
The Calipatria Unified School District is spearheading the assistance. In a letter sent July 7, 2020, the CRB and CCM are asking for the support of the citrus industry to help these citrus and other agricultural families recover from their losses.
Monetary donations can be sent to Calipatria Unified School District – Niland Fire Fund, 501 W. Main St., Calipatria, CA 92233.
Items currently needed include air mattresses with built-in pump, pillows (new), sleeping bags, portable ice chests, microwaves, toasters, dry food (such as beans, rice and pasta), canned food, ramen noodles, Cup of Noodles, cereal, eggs, potatoes and cooking oil. They also need personal hygiene products, and two electric chairs (new or used) for two elderly men.
For additional information, please contact Maria Nava-Froelich, director of the Calipatria-Niland Family Resource Center at 760-550-2606 or by email at mnava-froelich@calipat.com.