Federal Way, Washington, October 24, 2007: As the number of evacuees from the Southern California wildfires continues to grow, Christian relief agency World Vision has dispatched an initial truckload of emergency supplies to the area while assessing the needs of vulnerable, low-income populations who might not have ready access to insurance or other resources.

"We're in touch with our 80-plus church partners in the affected areas to identify any families with limited means, families left destitute by these fires, or people who may have difficulty accessing other assistance," said Jo Carcedo, World Vision's area director for Southern California.

The agency, which serves children and families in need both in the U.S. and in 100 countries worldwide, has sent an initial shipment of bottled water, face mask filters and clothing to its Storehouse in Los Angeles. The supplies, donated by World Vision's corporate donors, will be distributed through churches, schools, and community organizations to local families in need.

In addition, thousands of blankets, plus tents, cooking sets, a water purification system and additional clothing are on stand-by to be shipped from World Vision's global distribution site in Denver should they be needed in Southern California. World Vision is coordinating closely with the Red Cross, the Salvation Army and other organizations to identify any unmet needs. World Vision plans to launch additional targeted response measures as appropriate.

The public can help by calling 1.888.56.CHILD or visiting www.worldvision.org.

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Contact: Rachel Wolff, World Vision (253) 815-2072 (office); (253) 394-2214 (mobile)

About World Vision's Storehouse: World Vision's Storehouse helps meet the basic needs of children and families and revitalize neighborhoods by providing donated, high-quality goods such as personal care items, clothing, building materials and school supplies. The Storehouse provides these items to local partners, helping to strengthen community connections to churches and social institutions and to provide goods to those most in need. World Vision operates Storehouses in 11 cities throughout the United States, including Los Angeles. For more information about World Vision's work in the U.S., visit worldvision.org/press.

World Vision is a Christian humanitarian organization dedicated to working with children, families and their communities worldwide to reach their full potential by tackling the causes of poverty and injustice. Visit www.worldvision.org/press.