Overview

One805 is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit in Santa Barbara, CA that formed after the 2018 Thomas Fire and Montecito Mudflow. Both disasters claimed the lives of 23 community members and destroyed hundreds of homes. The mission of One805 is to prepare, equip, and support first responders by funding programs for well-being and raising funds for the purchasing of new equipment. In 2021, the Simms/ Mann Family Foundation worked with One805 to expand the capacity of Santa Barbara’s Air Support Team with an adapted Firehawk helicopter.

 

one805.org

Desired Impact

In recent years, the Santa Barbara area has been home to multiple natural disasters. Fires and floods jeopardize the health and safety of residents, including the first responders who work tirelessly to protect their community. A public safety aviation unit, composed of Santa Barbara County Fire Department and Santa Barbara Sheriff’s Office employees, has contributed to countless people being rescued, missing people found, and fires quickly suppressed.

The recent addition of the SBC Fire Department 964 Firehawk to the fleet has dramatically boosted the range, duration, and capability of the Air Support Unit for medevac operations. The Foundation’s support helped outfit the Firehawk with upgraded rescue and medical equipment that stabilizes up to 2 patients in flat or upright positions on a comfortable pad with appropriate seatbelts.

The [new equipment] will directly save lives country-wide and add to the already versatile mix of operations the Firehawk is able to perform.”

Kirsten Cavendish Weston Smith, One805 Co-Founder & Executive Board Member