Shelter program for CZU Lightning Complex survivors extended

SANTA CRUZ COUNTY, Calif. (KION-TV) -- A request to extend a shelter program for CZU Lightning Complex Fire survivors in Santa Cruz County has been approved.

Congressman Jimmy Panetta's office announced FEMA has approved the 30-day extension of the program, which provides those survivors shelter in a non-congregate setting.

This program provides emergency housing assistance to those impacted by the recent wildfires while following COVID-19 guidelines.

This is the second time that the shelter program has been extended since October.

“As the Central Coast continues to recover from the wildfires amid an ongoing pandemic, it is our duty in Congress to ensure that the federal government continues to provide the proper resources for the victims of these natural disasters” said Congressman Panetta. “I'm honored to again partner with Congresswoman Anna Eshoo to secure federal housing assistance for our constituents during these tough times.  Together, we will continue to do our job as federal representatives to ensure that the people of our home have the necessary support so that they can get back on their feet and back to their daily lives.”

More than 1,400 structures were destroyed in the fires, many of the structures were homes in the Santa Cruz County area.

The CZU Lightning Complex fire burned through 86,509 acres before reaching full containment September 22.