7-year-old Raises $350 for Thomas Fire

Source: United Way of Santa Barbara

Wanting to help those impacted by what is now the largest wildfire in California history, a 7-year-old Lompoc girl donated $350 she raised from a cocoa stand to the United Way Thomas Fire Fund.

Grayson along with her family presented the check at the offices of the United Way of Santa Barbara County, which has partnered with the United Way of Ventura County to establish the fund for all of those impacted by the fire. Although she lives dozens of miles from the blaze, Grayson could still see the tole the fire was taking through the ash and smoke that was filling her own town and wanted to help.

“We were driving and out of the blue, she told her grandma and I that she wanted to do a hot cocoa stand for the Thomas Fire,” Grayson’s mother Meredith said. 

The poor air quality from the fire shut down Grayson’s school for winter break early, so she set up her stand with the help of her little brother Rex.

“We’re super proud of her for thinking of others and being so eager to help!” said Meredith.

One-hundred percent of the donations to the United Way Thomas Fire fund will support those in communities affected by the wildfires. To date, more than $2.25 million has been collected.

How to give:

• Online at www.unitedwaythomasfirefund.org

• By texting UWVC to 41444

• By phone or mail: call (805) 485-6288 or checks may be sent to the United Way office at 702 County Square Drive, Suite 100, Ventura, CA 93003. Please write “Thomas Fire Fund” in the memo.