Out of the Ashes

out of the ashes Compassion in Action

by KK ROBERTS photography courtesy of JANINE D’AGOSTINI

In the heat of the dog days of August 2021, a raging wildfire enveloped Amador and El Dorado counties, threatening the lives and homes of area residents with destruction. The Caldor fire, the 15th largest in recorded California history, would go on to burn more than 200,000 acres (347 square miles). Situated directly in the path of the inferno, thousands of residents were subject to evacuation orders that were urgent and immediate. Shelters overflowed, leaving displaced locals unsure of where to go.

Resilience. Determination. Creativity. Compassion. Love. These are all traits that can empower those who suffer unimaginable loss, devastation, and tragedy to create a resourceful and collaborative community focused on support and healing. A very wise man, Mr. Fred Rogers, once said, “When I was a boy, and I would see scary things in the news, my mother would say to me, ‘Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping.’”

Following the evacuation of hundreds of residents, help was to be found in the open arms of Janine D’Agostini, her husband, El Dorado County Sheriff, John D’Agostini, and their extended family. Together they decided to offer their farmland to evacuees desperate for refuge.

The D’Agostinis’ inspiration for laying out the welcome mat? “I was driving into town and saw all the people lined up on the road with nowhere to go, and I thought about the farm,” says Janine D’Agostini. “I called my husband and said, ‘Hey, I’m thinking about jumping in here,’ and knowing me, he just said, ‘how high?’”

The couple called family members who were not only completely supportive but very ready to volunteer. The D’Agostini family farm became a haven for those in need.

“We started on social media,” she says. “We let folks know we were opening up the land for campers and cars and for those without anything but tents.” Fifty, then up to 200 people responded, bringing their displaced animals as well. “In addition to domestic animals, we had horses, cows, chickens and ducks. Volunteers donated panels and pens to house them, and we ended up with basically a petting zoo.” Feed stores provided food, and veterinarians offered their expertise in taking physical care of the animals.

The common thread sewing together the rescue effort was the embrace of the community. “We virtually became a functioning town,” D’Agostini notes, “all through donations and volunteers.” Fully prepared meals were served three times a day, with service and supplies donated by local restaurants. Marshall Hospital offered vaccines and conducted daily rounds for medical aid. “We had showers, restrooms and laundry,” she says. “Every need was met.” Handwashing stations were a staple, thanks to concerns about COVID. “We were all outdoors and had regular testing, and we [the family] had all tested clear right before the fire started,” she continues. Cal Fire posted progress reports and map updates daily during dinner. Teachers set up temporary schools; church groups planned activities, and the farm had voluntary security 24/7. According to D’Agostini, “We had amazing people who worked other fires come and set up hot spots “The greatness of a to make sure everyone could access the intercommunity is most net. The techies were incredible.” Members of the community joined forces to supply accurately measured unexpected amenities, including dozens and by the compassionate actions of its members.”