Every year, Americans have much to be thankful for as they gather with friends and family on Thanksgiving.
But this year, in parts of California, many residents are thankful just to be alive after a devastating wildfire season.
That is why the CEO of Idaho's Red Cross chose to make her home into an evacuation shelter for the holiday.
"Residents who've lost everything, they're staying with us as guests in our shelter, and we're gearing up to provide the best Thanksgiving we can," said Nicole Irwin.
The California fires have scorched communities across the golden state. Loved ones are missing, and thousands of homes obliterated. Still, there is hope for the holiday.
"Often, when you see devastation like this, you feel helpless," said Irwin. "But, I thought, I have some skills I can use, and it'd be an honor to serve."
Nicole will be in California for eight days, and she says she is thankful to spend her holiday doing what she loves.
