RVs Roll In Southern Oregon To Aid Fire Survivors

Almost 600 fire survivors have found temporary homes in hotel rooms, but many will soon go through the stress and confusion of being relocated once again.

By the end of the month, 89 available spaces at Southern Oregon RV Park next to the Jackson County Expo will be filled with recreational vehicles that will house those displaced by the Almeda and South Obenchain fires last summer.

Other RV parks, including one at Emigrant Lake, are also being looked at for more recreational vehicles. State RV parks are also being considered.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency has started installing the trailers, including building steps and a porch area. Other organizations and local residents have also donated RVs.

Because of COVID-19, 572 fire survivors are housed in 282 hotel rooms locally rather than sleeping in auditoriums typically set up as emergency shelters with cots.

After the Sept. 8 fires, the Red Cross did set up an emergency shelter at The Expo, but it has been phased out.

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Recreational vehicles seem to be one of the best options to house people for the longer term because many survivors are unsure how or when they will find a permanent housing solution. It’s also a way to maintain social distancing during the pandemic.

Check out the full article from Mail Tribune here.

Photo credit: Southern Oregon RV Park/Jamie Lusch / Mail Tribune