Historic Mariposa County is home to 17,000 residents and serves as the premier all-year entrance to Yosemite National Park.

On July 25th an accidental fire engulfing 53 square miles ravaged  30 homes, 90 outbuildings and caused the evacuation of hundreds of people. The evacuees (who didn't lose their homes) lost their refrigerated food due to power outages.

Thanks to the efforts of thousands of fire fighters and dozens of emergency agencies the fire was 100% contained on August 6, 2008.

Now it's time to recover.  While the unaffected parts of the community of Mariposa itself and many national agencies have come to the aid in awe-inspiring ways, assistance is still very much needed. Many of the residents who lost their homes, food, outbuildings and etc., are without insurance, or savings. Some are out of work.

You can help by offering a tax deductable donation of any amount. Your funds are instantly deposited into the Telegraph Fire Victim Relief Fund which is held by the Mariposa Community Foundation. (Tax ID# 42-1559697)

Please click the Donate Button below to help those in need. 

Photo: Les Overstreet