Three wildfires continue to burn in the Spokane area, known collectively as the Spokane Complex. The flames have destroyed hundreds of structures, and due to an urgent evacuation, more than 60,000 people have been forced to leave their homes. Now the local community is looking for ways to support those affected, and there are many ways to do so—from cash transfers to donating the most essential supplies.
Spokane Mayor Lisa Brown urges residents to be careful and not fall for scams. She recommends using only official sources of information and trusted organizations. One fund in particular is worth highlighting: the H.O.M.E. Starts Here Fund. This is a citywide Seattle initiative aimed at combating homelessness. The fund is set up as a partnership between city government and private nonprofit organizations: money comes both from the city budget and from private donations, while special intermediary funds manage it. Although the fund’s main goal is housing and support for people experiencing homelessness, in emergencies such as wildfires, its resources can be redirected to provide urgent help to those affected. Its flexible structure allows it to respond to acute crises—especially when people are left without shelter.
Several nonprofit organizations have also opened online fundraising drives. The local Innovia Foundation launched the Spokane Complex Wildfire Response Fund to help those affected, as well as businesses and community groups. Innovia is a major community foundation serving eastern Washington and northern Idaho. It collects donations from residents, companies, and estates, and then awards grants to local nonprofits—such as schools, hospitals, family assistance programs, and cultural centers. In rural areas, where large government entities are limited, such foundations often become a primary source of resources. They fund scholarships, food banks, medical clinics, and disaster emergency assistance. Organizations like these are part of a statewide network of so-called community foundations; among them are the Seattle Foundation, Spokane Community Foundation, and Empire Health Foundation. Together, they form the public support infrastructure that complements government programs.
The American Red Cross accepts donations for disaster preparedness, response, and recovery, and Catholic Charities Eastern Washington has created an emergency fund to support families who have lost their housing.
Beyond money, organizations also need specific items. Second Harvest Inland Northwest collects shelf-stable food at its center on East Front Avenue. The Project Beauty Share initiative asks residents to bring new hygiene supplies: shampoo, toothbrushes and toothpaste, soap, women’s hygiene products, razors, lotions, deodorants, and combs. Donations can be dropped off in person at East Sprague Avenue, or ordered through an Amazon wish list, with a note in the gift reading “fire relief efforts.”
Don’t forget about household pets, either. SpokAnimal shelter on North Napa Street accepts pet food, blankets, and towels, and is also seeking volunteers willing to temporarily foster animals displaced by fires. Even a small bit of help right now can make an enormous difference in the lives of those who lost everything within just a few hours.
Based on: How to help Spokane residents during the wildfires