Comcast Launches Multi-Faceted Support for California Park Fire Relief

Comcast has announced a comprehensive support plan for communities impacted by the California Park Fire, which has become the fourth largest wildfire in the state's history. The telecommunications giant is deploying a three-pronged approach to aid relief efforts, combining technology services, financial contributions, and community support.

At the heart of Comcast's response is the provision of Internet and TV services at the Local Assistance Center (LAC) in Chico. Starting August 5, the center will be operational for two weeks, offering a crucial hub for residents to access government services and resources necessary for recovery and rebuilding efforts. The LAC, located at 2156 Pillsbury Road, Suite 11 in Chico, will be open Monday through Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

To ensure widespread connectivity during this crisis, Comcast has opened its network of 1,100 public Xfinity WiFi hotspots across Butte and Tehama Counties. These hotspots are now available free of charge to anyone, including non-Xfinity customers, providing essential communication channels for residents and emergency personnel alike.

Comcast is also making a significant financial contribution to the relief efforts, pledging $70,000 in cash and in-kind donations. This support will be distributed among six local organizations that are playing crucial roles in fire relief and recovery. The beneficiaries include the Boys and Girls Clubs of the North Valley, North Valley Animal Disaster Group, North Valley Community Foundation, Northern Valley Catholic Social Service, Inc., True North Housing Alliance, and Watch Duty.

These organizations cover a wide spectrum of community needs, from assisting families and animals affected by the wildfires to providing emergency shelter, rapid rehousing programs, and vital information dissemination during the disaster.

To facilitate easy access to the free WiFi service, Comcast has provided detailed instructions for both Xfinity customers and non-customers. Users can locate hotspots via the Xfinity.com/wifi website or by using the Xfinity WiFi Hotspots app. Non-customers can connect by agreeing to the Terms and Conditions and can renew their complimentary sessions every two hours.

In addition to these immediate relief measures, Comcast is encouraging customers to prepare for potential service interruptions by downloading their mobile apps: Xfinity My Account for service updates, Xfinity Stream for access to live TV and weather updates, and Xfinity WiFi Hotspots for locating available connections.

The company has also shared several safety tips and precautions for customers, including the use of surge protectors for electronic devices, guidelines for service restoration after power outages, and reminders about the dangers of downed power and cable lines.

For Comcast Business customers, the company recommends downloading the Comcast Business App and enabling features like Be Anywhere and Call Forwarding to maintain business communications during the crisis. They also advise checking battery backups and ensuring Connection Pro services are correctly set up for automatic wireless backup.

This multi-faceted approach by Comcast demonstrates the critical role that telecommunications companies can play in disaster relief efforts. By providing free internet access, supporting local organizations, and offering practical advice to customers, Comcast is contributing to the resilience and recovery of communities affected by the California Park Fire.