The Long Term Recovery Group of Santa Cruz County (SCCLTRG) was formed in response to the devastating CZU Complex Lightning Fire that scorched 86,509 acres, forced over 60,000 residents to evacuate, destroyed 911 homes, and claimed one life. It was created as a collaboration of agencies and organizations to provide coordination of recovery services to the individuals, families, and communities that were adversely impacted by the CZU Fires and Atmospheric River Events.
Following the 2023 atmospheric rivers, which resulted in two separate federal disaster declarations, it became clear that the same partners leading existing recovery projects were also being called on to respond to new disasters. To better move major projects forward, the executive committee determined that dedicated staff was needed, filed for 501(c)(3) status for the Long Term Recovery Group of Santa Cruz County (SCCLTRG), and applied for startup funding in spring/summer 2023.