As crews continue battling the Old Trails, Fairview and Autumn Lane fires that sparked in Spokane County on Saturday afternoon, officials say the blazes have no
As crews continue battling the Old Trails, Fairview and Autumn Lane fires that sparked in Spokane County on Saturday afternoon, officials say the blazes have now been combined into one incident known as the Spokane Area Fires — and the damage is extensive.
As many as 65,000 people have had to evacuate, according to current estimates. Numerous nursing homes and assisted living facilities were evacuated, along with Whitworth University and the Mann-Grandstaff VA Medical Center. Many areas remain inaccessible, limiting officials’ ability to fully assess damage. Still, early reports indicate the fires have destroyed more than 700 homes.
MORE INFORMATION | Thousands flee as Spokane Complex Fire devastates neighborhoods
Across the state, Washingtonians have been looking for ways to help those affected.
Here are several options that organizations and agencies have shared:
Red Cross Northwest Region
The Red Cross has set up a fund to support those affected by Washington wildfires.
NEED A SHELTER? You can find shelters by visiting redcross.org, using the free Red Cross Emergency app, or by calling 1-800- RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).
The Red Cross is currently operating the main shelter at the Spokane Convention Center, located at 334 W Spokane Falls Blvd. The shelter is providing food, parking, showers, and a place for pets and people to stay overnight.
Donations to support the Red Cross and Spokane fire evacuees can be made through the organization's official donation portal, which can be found HERE.
H.O.M.E. Starts Here Fund
The City of Spokane has launched a wildfire relief effort through its H.O.M.E. Starts Here Fund to help individuals and families affected by the Spokane Area Fires.
Donations can be made through the city’s online donation portal, though donors will need to create an account before contributing.
Support firefighters at Spokane Fire Station 16
People can drop off items for firefighters at Spokane Fire Station 16, 5225 N. Assembly. The suggested items include socks, deodorant, chapstick, eye drops, electrolyte drinks or mix to put in water bottles, protein/granola bars, beef jerky, trail mix, protein shakes, baby wipes and sunscreen.
Partners Inland Northwest
Partners Inland Northwest is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 10814 E. Broadway Ave. in Spokane Valley, providing support, food, clothing and diapers to those in need. Donations of nonperishable food, clothing, diapers, hygiene items, and financial contributions are encouraged. are encouraged. You can find more information HERE.
“Donations of nonperishable food, clothing, diapers, hygiene items, and financial gifts help us continue serving families affected by the fires and others in need throughout our community,” Partners Inland Northwest said.
Catholic Charities Eastern Washington
Catholic Charities Eastern Washington has set up an emergency fund to support individuals and families. You can donate HERE.
YMCA
The YMCA of the Inland Northwest is opening all local branches to evacuees who need showers or a temporary place to rest. A valid photo ID is required.
Participating locations include:
- Central YMCA, 930 N. Monroe St.
- North YMCA, 10727 N. Newport Highway
- South YMCA, 2921 E. 57th Ave.
- Valley YMCA, 2421 N. Discovery Place
The YMCA facilities close at 8 p.m. Sunday and are open Monday through Friday from 5 a.m. to 9 p.m.
