Altadena : Hillside Sandbagging Effort
In the aftermath of the Altadena fire, churches and charities are seeking volunteers to sandbag hillsides to guard against mudslides during the rainy season.
Officials say the crusty layer of soil left behind from the recent hillside fire will prevent water from penetrating the ground. And without brush, mud will flow downhill uninhibited.
Monrovia-based World Vision U.S., the Salvation Army and a number of local churches are organizing a volunteer sandbagging effort for the weekends of Nov. 27 and Dec. 4, said Cathy Wickman, a World Vision official.
World Vision will provide the raw materials, and plans to install a telephone line this week to take calls from volunteers.
Bethany Christian Church in Sierra Madre, Lake Avenue Congregational Church in Pasadena and Altadena Baptist Church will assist in the sandbagging, Wickman said.
Experts from the Los Angeles County Flood Control District will oversee the placement of sandbags, said World Vision officials.
The Salvation Army is also assisting families without insurance who were displaced by the fire. Those who need help may call (818) 795-8639.
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