Local Red Cross teams across the Central Coast ready to assist if needed

CENTRAL COAST, Calif. (KION-TV) -- As devastating wildfires continue to tear through Southern California, local crews from the Central Coast American Red Cross are mobilizing the support.

According to the Red Cross, dozens of local volunteers and staff, including two shelter teams, are ready to travel to the impacted areas down south if assistance is required.

Local Community Disaster Program Manager Patsy Gasca, says that the Central Coast has seen similar assistance preparedness during past disasters by neighboring organizations.

“it seemed like the world came to our aid to help [and] provide those resources, both financial and human resources," said Gasca, recalling incidents where other American Red Cross units were deployed to the Central Coast area. "These devastated communities, we need to do the same for our Southern California partners right now.”

Gasca adds that additional help is especially needed after lengthy shifts for Los Angeles-area volunteers.

"We're there for California partners or our Red Cross sites there. At a moment's notice, when they need it, we'll have our volunteers and our materials rolling, but it's critical that we have those in advance,” Gasca said.

In terms of how people can help, Gasca says the red cross is always looking for volunteers and financial donations.