One of the many people taking calls at 211 San Diego during the 2007 fire was a little-known volunteer named Bill York . Today , 14 years later , York is 211 San Diego ’ s President & CEO . “ It was a difficult time ,” York shared with GB Magazine . “ I walked in and could see right away that this small organization , though full of enthusiasm , was overwhelmed at first ; but 211 quickly adapted , overcame the challenges , and helped San Diegans through an exceedingly difficult ordeal . It is something we continue to do .”
Since 2007 , 211 San Diego has helped the region through several fires . Ray Chaney is Director of Emergency Services for 211 San Diego and a former CAL FIRE Division Chief with three decades of experience fighting fires on the ground and from the air . “ San Diego is really unique in that we have a lot of experience with fires ,” said Chaney . “ Everybody in San Diego has stepped up and evolved to deal with large-scale catastrophic fires .”
The County of San Diego and SDG & E are two of 211 San Diego ’ s largest partners in preparing the region to meet the challenges of wildfires and connecting people to community services . “ SDG & E is a major partner in our efforts to help San Diegans access the resources they need to improve their lives and their wellbeing ,” said York . “ It takes many partners working together to prepare for the threat of wildfires each year , and we could not do what we do without the longstanding and ongoing support of SDG & E .”
211 San Diego and SDG & E ’ s partnership recently expanded to include the Public Safety Power Shutoff ( PSPS ) program , where SDG & E , during extreme weather , temporarily shuts off electric power in an effort to prevent wildfires . 211 San Diego has been indispensable in helping people with access and functional needs during a disaster .
Ray Chaney , Director of Emergency Services for 211 San Diego
“ We will continue to help San Diego do everything possible to prevent and respond to wildfires ,” said York . “ Our partnership with SDG & E and the County is a benchmark for the state and the nation that all of San Diego can be proud of .”
Dedicated team members at 211 San Diego working together to provide critical services to help San Diegans
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