Above: After disaster struck, Rotary members stepped up to raise funds for impacted communities on the other coast. (image cropped from contributed photo)
The Southborough Rotary Club asked me to share news that they quickly and successfully solicited over $3,000 in donations to support California communities ravaged by the wildfires.
In addition to describing the effort and thanking donors, their announcement below includes information for those who still want to pitch in:
It’s a tiny word, albeit a terrifying one: fire. The recent tragedy that struck our fellow citizens on the West Coast is both surreal and hard to grasp the magnitude of the short- and long-term losses they are experiencing. With the world watching mere clips of the damages, yet with the ability to turn off the news or be comforted that their loved ones in California are safe and sound, it’s easy for some to express sympathies and then carry on their day-to-day activities.
The Rotary Club of Southborough quickly convened at the urging of long-term member Chris Robbins with a special meeting on how the Club could make a difference. Town-wide donations began coming in, and a booth was set up at the Transfer Station, with members braving the cold weather to encourage residents to help in any amount possible. The devastation from these events will not be cured anytime soon, and it will take years, if not decades, to rebuild the physical losses. Lives have been changed permanently, and the psychological pains that those who experienced this first-hand are immeasurable.
The Club deeply appreciates each and every effort and donation made, large and small. As a result, $3040.65 was raised in a matter of days.
Since this catastrophe is far-reaching, donations of all denominations will continue to be accepted. If you want to contribute, you may do so by Venmo at @RotarySouthborough, by PayPal, or by check at Southborough Rotary Club, P.O. Box 391, Southborough, MA 01772.
If you’re interested in learning more about Southborough Rotary, click here.
