RESPONDING TO NEEDS - AFTERMATH OF THE TEA FIRE

At least 210 residences were destroyed in our community by the Tea Fire!  Life, over the next weeks and months will not be the same for those and many more families that have suffered varying degrees of loss.

"How can we help?"

The people of El Montecito Presbyterian Church have been calling and dropping by the office, inquiring about how best to help.  We have even had calls from out of state from old members who have moved.

The beginning of the answer is in three ways, for now:

1. Work parites are being organized to assist our members and parishoners who have lost their homes or had them seriously damaged.  If you, or someone you know can help, please call Bill at the church office - 805-969-5041 ext 222 for further info.
   
   The first home scheduled is that of Doug and Karen Crawford.  We will go to the site and help sift and search for anything that remains.  Helpers should bring shovels, rakes, wheelbarrows and wear heavy boots, gloves and bring a mask to keep the ash out of their lungs. Call Gordon Smith (805-969-0035) to get scheduled for this one.  Work will begin at about 9 AM on Saturday, November 22.
2. We are accepting cash donations - that really is the best way to help according to all the relief agencies.  These funds will be used in whatever way deemed best, to assist the victims.
3. We are no longer accepting clothing donations. The outpouring of care and concern has manifested itself into quite a large stockpile of wonderful clothing and bedding, etc.  We are referring callers now to other efforts in the Montecito Community.
4.  Furniture and household goods are not in order as of yet.  Most are still trying to find temproary housing.  If and when this changes, we will post the need here.

NOVEMBER 13, 1887
El Montecito Presbyterian Church is formed

In 1888, our original wood church building was dedicated (pictured above)

In 1932, during the Great Depression, the old wood church gave way to the sanctuary that served our parish for 73 years (2nd picture above).

Today, we worship in a beautifully remodeld and expanded sanctuary, with thanks to God! (3rd picture above)

Join us when you are able! Our worship times are traditional in structure, and relevant in content.
We'd love to meet you and learn about your faith journey and to be able to tell you about ours.