“We know that the faster we intervene the less likely people are to become chronically homeless.”— Ashiah Bird, marketing and communications director at True North Housing Alliance
More than 1,200 people were experiencing homelessness in Butte County last year, according to the latest Point-in-Time Count. Now, with more than 640 homes and other buildings destroyed in the Park Fire some are worried the situation could get worse.
Ashiah Bird, marketing and communications director with True North Housing Alliance, said her organization, and others like the Chico Housing Action Team and Good News Rescue Mission are working to quickly help those who lost homes in the fire.
“We know that the faster we intervene the less likely people are to become chronically homeless,” Bird said.
She said True North Housing Alliance has a rapid rehousing program that’s intended to remove barriers.
“[The rehousing program] is available to anybody … and that includes folks and households who have lost their home due to wildfire.”— Ashiah Bird, marketing and communications director at True North Housing Alliance
“It is available to anybody who is unhoused or experiencing homelessness,” she said. “And that includes folks and households who have lost their home due to wildfire.”
The North State has seen several destructive wildfires that have displaced residents over the years, including the 2018 Camp Fire, the 2020 Bear Fire or North Complex and the 2021 Dixie Fire.
Bird said the program ensures individuals receive any support they may need to find their footing.
“We basically want to help as many people as we can and we do that through providing wraparound support,” she said.
She said the organization can also help those who aren’t eligible for the rapid rehousing program with other options.
“We have collaborative community partnership and we will be getting them connected to other people to help cope and find housing and figure out their next step,” Bird said.
Bird said those who want help with housing can email True North Housing Alliance at info@truenorthbutte.org, or call 530-891-9048 between 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.
