The American Red Cross of Kern County has opened an additional shelter for residents affected by the ongoing Erskine Fire. The shelter is located at St. Jude’s Catholic Church, 86 Nellie Dent Dr., Wofford Heights, CA 93285. The Kernville Elementary School shelter location is still active and located at 13350 Sierra Way, Kernville, CA 93238.

“Our Red Cross teams have opened a new shelter to make sure we’re ready to care for anyone affected by evacuations,” said Regional Communications Director Jessica Piffero, “Volunteers will be on hand to provide relief and comfort for families during this incredibly difficult time.”

The Red Cross urges everyone to follow evacuation orders from local law enforcement and have an emergency kit ready go for any disaster including wildfires. Visit http://www.redcross.org/prepare/disaster/wildfire to learn more.

The Red Cross is able to provide disaster relief services during wildfire season thanks to the generosity of the community. The best way to help current wildfire evacuees is through a financial donation. Visit redcross.org to make an online donation to your local chapter. The Red Cross has partnered with Goodwill Industries to manage donated goods such as clothing or household items. Affected residents will be given vouchers to receive those donations.

Follow the local Red Cross on Twitter and Facebook for additional preparedness tips and real time disaster response updates.