San Bruno Gas Explosion Recovery Will Take Years
Slowly but surely, things are getting back to normal in San Bruno for many of those affected by the explosion and fire almost two weeks ago.
Everyone is back in their homes, except for those whose homes were either destroyed or too badly damaged to inhabit. Sheets of plywood have replaced melted and broken windows, and repair and restoration crews are hard at work.
In addition, the assistance center, with tables of food and piles of donated clothing has closed, being replaced by an office staffed by the city, PG&E and the Red Cross.
"Things are starting to quiet down, and we're starting to get people the long-term recovery that they need," said Red Cross spokeswoman is Caitlin Cobb. "I think all of the affected peoples' immediate needs have been met, and now we're focusing on the long-term recovery, and making sure everyone has the continued support that they need."
Cobb says the emotional recovery will take a lot longer than the physical one. Dozens of families remain displaced, and have lost almost everything. It could be years before their sense of well-being is restored, and many will be haunted forever by that nightmarish night.
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