California wildfire burns camp used by Minneapolis non-profit

The deadly Woolsey Fire in southern California has destroyed a camp used for 24 years by a Minneapolis non-profit, One Heartland.

“I’ve worked here for thirteen years. This is probably the 4th or 5th fire that has been in the area that I’ve been here for,” said Patrick Kindler, One Heartland’s Executive Director. “They usually miss. We’ve had one building burn down in the past.”

The fire destroyed 87 of the 97 buildings standing at the camp. It also destroyed up to $10,000 worth of supplies One Heartland keeps at the camp all year. 

Every August, the camp located in the Malibu hills offers teens from Minnesota and other states who are affected by HIV and AIDS, a chance to socialize with others dealing with similar situations. While the program started as an HIV/AIDS camp, it now also helps those who are socially isolated.

“We’ve been running that program for so long, we have tons of friends in the L.A. area,” said Kindler. “If we’re on Facebook we’re constantly seeing posts from friends with fires in their backyards. Our partners are there, so we’re emailing with them and we’re trying to figure out next summer, but trying to be respectful.”

The Woolsey fire has destroyed over more than 400 structures in Malibu and other communities, according to California’s fire information.

Woolsey Fire

Location: Los Angeles County, Ventura County

98,362 acres burned

52 percent contained

3 fatalities confirmed

435 structures destroyed, 57,000 in danger

Camp Fire

Location: Butte County

            138,000 acres burned

            35 percent contained

            56 fatalities confirmed

            10,321 structures destroyed (including homes)