Sonoma Rotary seeks donations to assist Paradise fire victims

In an effort to assist the families and individuals affected by the fire in the town of Paradise, the Rotary Clubs of Sonoma Valley are soliciting gift cards -- and donations to purchase gift cards -- for distribution among the fire-affected town via the Paradise Rotary club.

According to Sonoma Valley Rotary officials, “Gift cards allow recipients to have money for necessities ASAP. Gift cards to stores and businesses with outlets in Chico are the best bet.”

Such stores as Target, Safeway, Raley's, Walmart, Kohl's, Rite Aid and CVS are among those Rotary is recommending for worthwhile gift cards. Gas cards are needed as well.

Donations of gift cards may be dropped off or mailed to the attention of Mara Kahn at Better Homes & Gardens Wine Country Group Realtors, 470 First St. E., Sonoma CA 95476. Checks will be accepted as well, made out to the Paradise Rotary Foundation. If dropping off, place donation in a sealed envelope. For more information, call 415-860-3052.

Families are also being invited to purchase a new backpack and to fill it with school supplies, snacks, books and a game. Tag the backpack with the approximate age appropriateness and if relevant, the preferred gender of the recipient.

Sonoma Valley Rotary will send donations up in a truck headed to Paradise.

A gofundme account has also been set up at www.paradisestrong.org.