Like many in Los Osos, I appreciate your thorough and thoughtful coverage of the recent storm-related flooding that so devastated several of our neighborhoods. Given the cumbersome and bureaucratic process to receive government assistance, your detailed coverage of the (now closed) Disaster Recovery Center in San Luis Obispo was very helpful. I’ve never seen so many acronyms and organizations named in a single story. Which is why I was puzzled that the most local and responsive non-profit organization of all wasn’t mentioned once.
People Helping People (PHP) was on the ground distributing immediate and direct aid in the form of gift cards, rentals of storage pods, deposits to contractors and housing. Within the first 10 days, prior to the dispersal of any other aid from any other source, they had given out over $15,000 and I’m certain that has at least doubled. The fact that PHP – founded back in the 1970s – has no overhead (all volunteers and donations) means every contribution to the organization goes to people in need. That is why they will be handling the distribution of proceeds from the upcoming Disaster Relief Concert at the South Bay Community Center on Sunday, February 26. If you cannot attend this wonderful event, you can still help by sending a donation to PHP, PO Box 6221, Los Osos, CA 93412. Just write Disaster Relief Fund on the memo line of your check, a dedicated account has been established.
If you can make it out on the 26th you are in for a treat. Five of the best bands in the County (seriously, check out the lineup on the posters around town!), a silent auction similar to that of the Christmas-time Needs N Wishes benefit, food provided by the Rotary and Kiwanis clubs, and delicious beer and wine courtesy your favorite pubs and restaurants.
A true disaster has affected many in our community and it will take all of the benefit concerts, Go Fund Me’s (thanks Diana) and resources from Los Osos Cares that we can muster. I just wanted to say thanks to People Helping People and acknowledge their length of service to this community. I hope to see everyone at the Community Center on the Sunday, the 26th, from 11:30 until 6 p.m.
Chuck Cesena
Los Osos