The Santa Cruz Long Term Recovery Group was formed in response to the devastating CZU Complex Lightning Fire that scorched 86,509 acres, forced over 60,000 residents to evacuate, destroyed 911 homes, and claimed one life. It was created as a collaboration of agencies and organizations to provide coordination of recovery services to the individuals, families, and communities that were adversely impacted by the CZU Fire.

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 is currently launching the Volunteer Rebuild Program in collaboration with Mennonite Disaster Services. We will start construction of 5 homes in the summer of 2024 with the goal of building 15 homes for some of our most vulnerable CZU Fire families over a 3-year period. Additionally, SCCLTRG aims to collaborate with organizations and stakeholders for strategic preparedness and mitigation efforts to ensure that Santa Cruz County residents are better prepared for future disasters both collectively and individually.