Our home state is experiencing some of the largest and most destructive fires in its history. Communities across central and western Nebraska are facing devastating loss – and many folks have asked how to help.
To date, more than 750,000 acres have burned across four major wildfires – impacting farmers, ranchers, homeowners and first responders working tirelessly to contain the damage. While progress is being made, the need for both immediate relief and long-term recovery support remains significant.
We wanted to share a few of the many funds set up offering critical support from emergency shelter and meals to rebuilding efforts and aid for affected agricultural producers:
- American Red Cross Nebraska Region Providing critical support to displaced residents, including operating a shelter in Brady and assisting with a respite center in North Platte for firefighters needing rest, meals and recovery between shifts.
- United Way of Western Nebraska A dedicated wildfire relief fund has been established, with 100% of donations going directly to meet needs caused by the fires.
- The Salvation Army Raising funds to support emergency responders and families affected by the fires, offering immediate relief and ongoing assistance.
- Sandhills Fire Relief Fund A fund at the Oregon Trail Community Foundation providing immediate relief and long-term recovery distributed by the Oregon Trail Community Foundation where help is needed most.
- Nebraska Wildfire Recovery Fund A fund at the Nebraska Community Foundation providing financial support to communities, individuals and families, safety equipment and investments in emergency management infrastructure to build community resilience and preparedness for the future.
- Nebraska Sandhills Ranchers Relief Fund A fund at the Kearney Community Foundation helping victims of the wildfires and assisting in disaster recovery primarily in Garden, Morrill, Arthur, Keith and Grant counties.
- Nebraska Cattlemen Disaster Relief Fund A fund set-up to assist beef cattle producers who are being impacted by fires.
If you would like to utilize your donor advised fund at the Lincoln Community Foundation to recommend a grant to any qualified nonprofits helping with this emergency, login to your donor portal.
Please contact Rhonda Page, rhondap@lcf.org or 402-474-2345 with questions.
Use caution when donating through crowdfunding websites and social media, as scammers may be looking to take advantage of people’s good will.
