The Need for a New Red Cross Preparedness & Response Center Serving the Northern Region

In recent years, the population in northern Santa Barbara County has surpassed the southern part of the county. Most Red Cross resources are centralized in South County.

In the event of a major wildfire, earthquake or flood, it is likely that the residents of North County would be cut off by road from South County – limiting access to temporary shelter, emergency supplies and other critical Red Cross services.

We must equip the North County with a stand-alone Red Cross Preparedness and Response Center that is comparable to our headquarters in South County. Recognizing this need, the Board of Directors invested $1.3 million to purchase the 11,750 sq. ft. empty warehouse at 3030 Skyway Drive near the Santa Maria Airport for this purpose.

We are now turning to the individuals, foundations and businesses in the community to help raise the $1.5 million needed for this project.