Wildfires are part of life. They are a natural disaster. Recently, due to a host of reasons I could write a whole other blog post on, they have become incredibly destructive, gobbling up more acres than ever before…and the homes & communities in their way.
What used to be “unprecedented” is now the norm.
Most of our natural reaction is to want to help in some way. This can soon become overwhelming- it’s hard to know who to trust, if your donation is actually reaching those affected, and what is legitimate.
Government agencies (local, state, and federal) often ethically cannot accept donations, so it’s best to go through non-profit organizations to ensure your gift can actually be used.
Because I live in the Reno area and we’re sandwiched in between the 2 highest priority fires (Dixie Fire & Caldor Fire) in the nation right now, these links are for those areas/fires specifically.
Links to 3 Donation Sites
Yelp (general donations)
This is an impressive link that includes not only donation sites, but also resources for families (day camps for kids, discount hotel rooms, etc.) that have been affected directly. This list includes donation options for both the California and Nevada sides of these massive fires. Check it out here.
Nevada Humane Society (animals/pets)
The Nevada Humane Society accepts both monetary and/or supply donations. When evacuations are ordered. not all families are able to get to their homes to rescue their furry friends, so many animals end up displaced. This puts a strain on the local animal rescue centers. Your donations help ease this temporary time of need so these pets can get what they need until their families are able to claim them.
Wildland Firefighter Foundation (firefighters & their families)
When a firefighter is hurt or killed in the line of duty, the Wildland Firefighter Foundation steps in to aid the family with crisis assistance and finances. They are able to circumvent governmental agency “red tape” and provide help immediately. If you’re ever in the Boise area, you can drop into the center for a visit- it’s a sobering and humbling experience to see all the photos on the wall of those lost in the wildland firefighting community over the years.
We often focus solely on the firefighter efforts on these massive wildfires, which is understandable because they need the thoughts, prayers, and appreciation. However, behind every firefighter is a support system- family, friends, co-workers, etc. – that need our gratitude as well. It’s a tough job being on the other side, so when a tragedy occurs, having an organization like the WFF is priceless.
This is by no means a comprehensive list- it’s meant to help those of you interested in donating or helping in a “not so overwhelming” way. Plus, I’ve been asked by several folks in the last few days so I wanted to get you all a resource in a timely fashion.
Feel free to share a comment below with additional ways to help out…
…and let’s all please pray for some rain!