What started as an idea on Thursday to help one random family displaced by the devastating Camp Fire in Butte County has turned into something pretty special. best example: we got word that every single room occupied by evacuated families at the Hilton Garden in Roseville was paid for by others this weekend. Every single room.

And as I called around this afternoon to other hotels in the region to see if they were OK with folks picking up a night or two for displaced families, I heard more stories of generosity–from rooms being paid for to coloring books being dropped off. Luke Bryan is right. Most people are good.

If YOU want to help, the need is still there, and will be for some time. Even for those who will eventually be reimbursed by insurance, there could still be a need for help right now. Many of these folks are in shock, and have lost everything. This is also a great way to have a positive impact right now, directly. 

Here is a partial list of hotels along, basically, the 99/65 corridor that will accept payment from a third party to cover a night for an evacuated family. Most can do it over the phone unless otherwise noted, and we’ve also noted which hotels are taking other donations as well. 

One note: definitely call ahead if you’re thinking of dropping off items. We’ve noted which hotels have said they will accept donations but please call before going by to make sure they still are.

And while Marriott hotels/Roseville have told us they have more than enough families willing to take in evacuees for Thanksgiving dinner (which is awesome), they do still need donations of grocery store gift cards and/or restaurant gift cards. If you’re interested, contact either Jessica at 916-772-5555 or Becky at 916-783-7455.

Marysville

Comfort Suites/Beale

530-742-9200

Motel 6

530-742-2700

Yuba City

Best Western

530-674-1650

Bonanza Inn and Suites

530-674-8824 (also accepting donations of gift cards and clothing)

Travelodge

530-790-7066

Lincoln/Rocklin/Roseville

Holiday Inn Express Lincoln

916-644-3440 x 503 (also accepting donations and encouraging displaced families to come by to sort through what has been brought in)

Comfort Inn 

916-624-4500 (also accepting gift card donations)

Larkspur Landing

916-773-1717

Homewood Suites

916-783-7455 (room must be paid for in person, cannot accept payment by phone)

Marriott Hotels, including Courtyard By Marriott on Taylor Road

916-772-5555 (accepting donations of snacks and clothing)

And, in the Sacramento area

Hilton Sac/Arden West

916-922-4700

Hyatt Regency

916-443-1234

Doubletree 

916-929-8855

This is a very partial list. Feel free to contact a hotel near you and see if there is an evacuee family staying there. And, again, it doesn’t have to be a room payment. Ask if they would accept a gift card donation that could be passed along, or if they’re collecting other items for families staying with them.

The outpouring of support so far has been absolutely heartwarming. One front desk clerk in Marysville said she’s spent most of the day crying happy tears as people have come by to check on families. 

Be the good!