Arcata Gets $50K Relief After Downtown Fire

A devastating fire that destroyed several businesses in downtown Arcata has sparked an unexpected wave of generosity across California's Humboldt County.

Within days of the January blaze, Pacific Gas and Electric Company leaders reached out to local nonprofit Humboldt Made with an offer nobody saw coming. The PG&E Corporation Foundation committed $50,000 to help affected businesses rebuild, setting the tone for what's become a countywide recovery effort.

"PG&E didn't wait to be asked—they saw a need and stepped in with real, meaningful support," said Rosa Dixon, Executive Director of Humboldt Made. The organization is now working with the Arcata Chamber of Commerce and city officials to distribute the funds directly to impacted businesses.

The relief fund operates with complete transparency. Every single dollar donated goes straight to affected businesses, with zero administrative fees taken out.

Other local organizations quickly joined the effort. Cal Poly Humboldt, Coast Central Credit Union, Redwood Capital Bank, and Vero have all pledged support, demonstrating how deeply the community cares about its small businesses.

To jumpstart community fundraising, Cal Poly Humboldt donated 100 basketball game tickets. Humboldt Made volunteers will sell them at Thursday's men's basketball game, with all proceeds benefiting fire victims.

The Arcata Chamber is surveying affected businesses to understand their needs. A committee of community partners will use those results to determine how relief funds are distributed, ensuring support reaches those who need it most.

The Ripple Effect

This coordinated response shows what's possible when organizations work together instead of waiting for someone else to take the lead. Brian Gerving, PG&E's Regional Senior Manager for Humboldt, explained why the company acted quickly: "The businesses impacted are important to us and our families."

The fund's structure also creates a model other communities can follow. By committing to zero administrative fees and transparent distribution, organizers built trust from day one, making it easier for other donors to contribute confidently.

Funds are expected to reach businesses by April, but the support network being built will last much longer. The collaborative committee includes trusted partners who understand local needs and can ensure recovery efforts address both immediate and long-term challenges.

For Arcata's small business owners facing the overwhelming task of rebuilding, this response sends a powerful message: they won't face recovery alone.