In early December 2017, a fast-moving brush fire erupted in the Southern California community of Santa Paula.
The Thomas Fire, not fully contained until mid-January, is estimated to have burned a total of 281,893 acres causing the destruction of 1,063 structures in Ventura and Santa Barbara counties, making it the largest fire in modern California history. It was also reported that over 104,000 persons were evacuated as a result of the wildfire. Before the community could even begin the recovery process after the fire, a series of deadly mudslides caused even more destruction in the nearby city of Montecito, Calif.
Emergency Response by Interface Children and Family Services
During the natural disasters, Interface Children and Family Services, a nationally-recognized nonprofit social services agency based in Ventura County, responded to 1,800 calls for help during the Thomas Fire and 700 calls during the first two days of the mudslide. Additionally, Interface offered mental health and wellness support resources to thousands of Ventura and Santa Barbara county residents that were affected by the disasters. They also developed a process to transport seniors and disabled residents to safety through a partnership with Ventura County Transportation Commission (VCTC). As a critical safety net for children and families, Interface provides distinct programs across many major social service areas.
Semtech Gives Back
Semtech Corporation was founded in Ventura County 58 years ago and its headquarters has remained in the area ever since. Semtech understands the impact these natural disasters have on our community. On June 15 at River Ridge Golf Course in Oxnard, Calif., Semtech will host its 6th Annual Charity Golf Tournament. Proceeds from this year’s tournament will directly support quality programs that community members rely on to overcome significant challenges resulting from the Thomas Fire and other significant threats to their safety and well-being.
“It is important to Semtech to contribute positively and meaningfully to the Camarillo community and Ventura County at large,” said Mohan Maheswaran, President and CEO of Semtech. “Interface is one of the region’s most comprehensive nonprofit social services agencies, providing direct and responsive services to the community as seen during the recent natural disasters. Semtech is honored to collaborate with Interface this year and support its programs.”
Previous tournaments have raised over $200,000 collectively for a variety of Ventura County charities including: RaisingHOPE, RAIN Communities, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Ventura County, as well as Interface Children and Family Services.
Learn more about the important work Interface does for Ventura and Santa Barbara communities.
Subscribe to Semtech's blog for a monthly digest of news, trends and thoughts from Semtech leadership.
