Following the 2023 atmospheric rivers resulting in two separately declared federal disasters, it became apparent that the organizations and individuals involved in launching and moving existing recovery projects forward were now also tasked with responding to these new disasters. It was determined that dedicated staff was needed to move large projects forward. In spring/summer of 2023 the executive committee filed for 501c3 status for the Long Term Recovery Group of Santa Cruz County (SCCLTRG), and applied for a startup grant.
SCCLTRG has launched the Volunteer Rebuild Program in collaboration with national, state, and local rebuild partners. We are constructing modest homes from the ground up and supporting rebuild projects that have stalled due to lack of funding. We are also supporting storm repair projects.
Additionally, SCCLTRG collaborates with organizations and stakeholders to stand up the Santa Cruz County VOAD (Voluntary Organizations Active in Disasters) to enhance local strategic preparedness and mitigation efforts.