PRESS RELEASE
Date: September 1, 2020 Contact: Jason Hoppin Jason.Hoppin@santacruzcounty.us
SHELTER SITES BEGIN TRANSITION
With the repopulation of significant areas of the initial CZU Lighting Complex evacuation zone, the Santa Cruz County Emergency Operations Center is beginning the process of consolidating shelters to focus on the needs of those with longer-term displacements.
Overall shelter population has declined by more than two-thirds since the repopulation process began. The EOC has begun the wind-down process at Congregational Church of Soquel, The Coastlands Aptos Foursquare Church, Twin Lakes Church in Aptos and Santa Cruz Civic Auditorium.
The County thanks the city and the congregations who stepped forward to serve the broader community by offering their facilities during a time of great community need. The current number of displaced residents being sheltered at County facilities is approximately 500.
Shelter sites remain open at the Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds in Watsonville, Seventh Day Adventists Conference Grounds in Soquel, Cabrillo College in Aptos, Harbor High School in Santa Cruz, and Simpkins Family Swim Center in Live Oak.
Evacuees staying in consolidating shelters are being contacted by staff to discuss options. Additonally, the County is continuing the transition shelter operations to the American Red Cross.