We (an extended household of two families) stayed at Maija’s place as evacuees during the Santa Cruz County Lightning Fires. With 77,000 locals displaced by the fires, it was next-to-impossible to find an accommodation. We consider ourselves incredibly lucky in finding Maija’s Airbnb. For the duration of the evacuation order, we had a roof over our heads, got to stay in the area within a half-hour of driving distance from our homes, close to family and friends, and were graciously allowed to bring in and keep with us the family dog.
The house was well stocked with the pandemic necessities like toilet paper and cleaning supplies, and we had access to a covered, lighted, private patio in the back, where we spent the time whenever the smoky fire air allowed for the outdoors.
All our basic needs were covered: a kitchen and a fridge, showers and hot water, beds to sleep in, Wi-Fi to resume working remotely — while waiting for the evacuation order to be lifted and hoping that our own homes were still there. Grateful for this temporary home in the time of need!