Malpass Family Fire Relief Fund

I’m Chay Peterson, longtime resident of Wildcat Road in Silverado Canyon and community organizer. My wonderful neighbors, the Malpass family, recently purchased their dream home, the historic Wildcat Ranch, a 1920’s old homestead on 40 acres of wild land. It was a huge step for the modest living family, but they closed escrow in September this Covid-19 year, and had wonderful plans to make the rustic cabin livable and thriving again. Early this morning the family was awakened by embers from the exploding Silverado Bond Fire and they quickly grabbed a few belongings and evacuated. They were evacuated but sadly, the erratic winds fueling the brush fire caught the surrounding hills on fire which quickly engulfed all four historic structures. No firefighting equipment had been dispatched to the scene nor flying water droppers by the time it was engulfed.

One neighbor wrote of the situation: “The whole neighborhood was thrilled that the gem of our little canyon had fallen into the hands of folks who understood the history, beauty, and importance of a place we have have loved and valued for years. What a horrible day! This tragedy can become an opportunity, a new Wildcat Ranch armored against fire and embracing the regeneration of that beautiful location. Let's make it happen!”

The Malpass family will not only have to sort through the ashes for remnants of their happy life on the ranch, they’ll also be facing the difficulty of lodging accommodations, food & clothing, and ultimately attempting to gain permits to rebuild their home.

We can’t imagine their grief right now, but we can contribute something to help them through this difficult time. Please join me. Thank you so much.