Community Corner

CA Mudslides: How To Help Victims In Montecito

Twenty people were killed, 28 were injured and hundreds of homes were damaged. Here's how you can help Montecito.

MONTECITO, CA -- Thousands of people in a small California coastal town were uprooted from their homes last week after a rainstorm brought mudslides that devastated the area. Just weeks earlier, Montecito residents were also forced to evacuated because of the Thomas Fire, the largest wildfire in California's history.

As the community mourns the loss of 20 victims, residents are also looking toward rebuilding their lives and homes. There's also support needed for the 28 victims who were injured in the mudslides.

Here's a roundup of GoFundMe pages that could use your help.

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Munoz Family

The Munoz family is mourning the loss of one of their own. Martín Cabrera Munoz, 48, was killed in the mudslides, and his family need help paying for a proper funeral. They hope to raise $15,000 to pay for services.

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"This was all sudden to us and unfortunately we don’t have the funds for our brothers services," the page reads. "Anything, even a share would be very much appreciated."

Rose Cafe Owners

The beloved owner of the Rose Cafe, Peter Fleurat, was found dead. He was 73. Friends are fundraising to help Fleurat's partner, Lalo, rebuild after losing his best friend of 20 years. The fundraising goal is set for $50,000.

"his devastating incident has left Lalo with nothing but the clothing he was wearing when he was rescued...no home, no car, nothing," the page reads. "After being such a prominent part of Santa Barbara for so many years, customers and friends who have heard of his loss are asking what they can do to help and what Lalo needs."

McManigal Family

This family of eight lost their patriarch, John McManigal, in the mudslides. McManigal was 61. One of the sons, Connor, is also recovering from serious injuries, the page said. Loved ones are asking the public to help the family rebuild their lives and pay for medical bills as they recover from the devastation.

"While money can never take away their pain, we can help them cover some of the many costs that lie ahead. No amount is too small," the page reads.

Cantin Family

The daughter, Kim, of the Cantin family made national headlines when she was seen pulled from the muddy debris last week, surprised that she was even alive. Sadly, her 49-year-old father, David, did not survive the disaster, and her brother, Jack, is still missing. Friends are asking the public to help the family recover as they mourn the loss of their loved ones.

"We are working with the local community to offer as much support to Kim and her family as quickly as possible. Please keep Kim and her family in your thoughts and prayers," the page reads.

Other Ways

Direct Relief, a nonprofit based in the region, is offering support to the victims and residents. Donations can be made to the organization to assist in their efforts.

United Way Of Santa Barbara County is working to provide short-term needs to the residents as they recover. You can help by donation to the cause.

--Photo: People attend a candlelight vigil in Santa Barbara, Calif., Sunday, Jan. 14, 2018, to pay tribute to the people who were killed when mudslides ravaged a Southern California. (AP Photo/Mike Balsamo)

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