Wildfires remain a serious concern in California, and recovery can be especially difficult for those we serve. Recently, DDS asked our Emergency Response Coordinator to review a trauma support resource initially created in Hawaii to see if it could help our community. The Department of Developmental Services (DDS) decided to move forward with the creation of this resource as it offers great value for those we serve.

Here is the original description from the authors, which explains its purpose and origin: 

“This book is designed for children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities who were affected by the wildfires in California. However, it can be helpful to anyone. It uses strategies drawn from evidence-based interventions for trauma care. It is written in plain language to give words to what happened and what people are experiencing. Hopefully, it will help people feel safe and begin to heal. The first version of this book was developed for people who were impacted by the 2023 wildfires in Maui, Hawai’i. This edition is dedicated to the California Department of Developmental Services (DDS) and the families they serve, with aloha from your neighbors in Hawai’i. We stand with you in support and healing, and we hope this resource brings comfort and strength as you navigate recovery.”

This resource is now available in the following languages:

• English
• Armenian
• Chinese – Traditional
• Korean
• Spanish
• Tagalog
• Vietnamese