Contractor will match Tea Fire donations
by Scott Steepleton
Santa Barbara News-Press — November 19th, 2008
A local contractor has renewed his challenge to the community, first made in the immediate aftermath of the Tea Fire, to rise up in an effort to help victims of the destructive blaze.
David Lack has started the Tea Fire Victims Lack Challenge, in which he will match up to $10,000 of contributions to a fund set up at Bank of Santa Barbara.
"Last week's Tea Fire has destroyed the homes of many of our friends, neighbors and fellow citizens. Most of these folks are now homeless, grief stricken, and understandably uncertain as to where to go and what to do," said Mr. Lack.
"There, but for the grace of wind direction, go any of us."
Mr. Lack, owner of Lack Construction, said proceeds from the challenge will be presented to the Santa Barbara Chapter of the American Red Cross to help local fire victims.
In announcing the challenge, Mr. Lack said wildfires are a perennial risk in the community, with the potential to affect any of us, no matter where we live here.
"But one of the many things that makes our community such a great place to live is that we help each other -- especially in times of acute need. In that respect alone, we have long been an exceptional community."
Donations in response to the Lack Challenge may be made at Bank of Santa Barbara, 12 E. Figueroa St., Santa Barbara 93101.
Authorities say the Tea Fire, which destroyed 210 homes in Santa Barbara and unincorporated Montecito, was of human origin and are seeking the public's help in locating the person or people responsible.
Three people suffered burns; two are hospitalized in critical condition.
If you are doing something to help fire victims and their families, send the details to Scott Steepleton at ssteepleton@newspress.com.
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