Months after the Borel Fire scorched parts of Kern County, residents in the small mountain community of Havilah are still rebuilding — and without a federal disaster declaration, the burden of recovery now falls largely on local organizations and volunteers.
- Local officials emphasize that recovery efforts depend on community support, as federal aid remains unavailable.
- Nonprofits and volunteers are leading recovery initiatives, addressing needs like rent, food, and basic supplies.
- State officials are appealing for federal assistance, but local leaders express frustration at the slow progress.
Months after the Borel Fire scorched parts of Kern County, residents in the small mountain community of Havilah are still struggling to rebuild — and without a federal disaster declaration, the burden of recovery now falls largely on local organizations and volunteers.
Vicki Porter, a longtime Havilah resident, said she feels attention to Borel has dwindled since the fire burned through the region last year.
“I don’t think most of Kern County even knows that Havilah is here, honestly,” Porter said. “I haven’t really heard anything about the Borel Fire since September.”…