Over the last month, the Cameron Peak Fire has made its way through Northern Colorado, burning more than 100,000 acres and destroying more than 50 structures, including 25 residences, in its wake. The fire is now considered the largest wildfire in Larimer County history.

It has been devastating to witness this fire tear across the county, yet equally inspiring to see how the community has rallied behind those in need and those fighting on the front lines. There are a number of organizations, relief efforts and local heroes in Larimer County working overtime to provide assistance and lifesaving resources to those affected by the Cameron Peak Fire. Not to mention, local businesses and individuals have rallied together to provide needed supplies — including Holiday Twin Drive-In!

If you are looking for ways to support those in need, consider donating to these organizations providing supplies and assistance for evacuees and first responders. At this time, relief agencies are not accepting physical donations and Larimer County residents are asked to not support drives for physical items. Instead, your financial contribution will go towards purchasing the specific items needed.

Consider making a monetary donation — or opening up your home for a displaced animal — to make a significant difference in the lives of those affected by the Cameron Peak Fire.

 

Make a Monetary Donation

The American Red Cross

For natural disasters and emergencies both big and small, the American Red Cross is always there to help those in need, and the Cameron Peak Fire is no exception. While the Northern Colorado chapter is operating an evacuation center, the best way to support them at this time is by making a financial donation online, over the phone or by mail.

 

Larimer Humane Society

Larimer Humane Society is assisting impacted communities by retrieving companion animals, offering water assistance for companion animals within the fire zone, providing information on lost and found animals, and providing temporary shelter for evacuated companion animals. The best way to support their efforts is by making a monetary donation, which allows them to continue rescuing animals throughout Larimer County. Learn more about what Larimer Humane Society is doing and how you can help here.

 

Volunteers of America

Volunteers of America has been assisting with pre-evacuation calls for the Cameron Peak Fire. This faith-based organization has been serving the most vulnerable for nearly 125 years, taking on the most difficult tasks to help the most underserved. Help support their efforts — for both the Cameron Peak Fire and COVID-19 — by contributing a monetary donation.

 

Local Fire Departments

As mentioned, fire departments are not accepting physical donations at this time, but there are several accepting monetary donations. This is the best way to fuel the incredible work they are doing, especially during such a difficult time.

Glen Haven Area Volunteer Fire Department: Donate Here

Livermore Fire Protection District: Donate Here

Loveland Fire Rescue Authority: Donate Via Mail or In Person (Details Here)

Poudre Canyon Fire Protection District: Donate Here

Rist Canyon Volunteer Fire Department: Donate Here

 

Provide Temporary Housing for the Larimer Humane Society

If you would like to offer hands-on assistance and have some room to spare, consider providing temporary housing for animals affected by the fire, ranging from dogs and cats to goats and guinea pigs. Click here to sign up to provide temporary animal housing through the Larimer Humane Society. At this time, the humane society is not in need of donated food or supplies, and is limiting volunteers to their existing volunteer crew due to COVID-19, so this is an excellent way to get involved with their efforts.

 

Stay Tuned

As circumstances evolve and needs change, stay up to date on the latest information by visit the Larimer County Cameron Peak Fire page for details about shelters, credentials, fire conditions and FAQs.

Follow the Larimer County Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster on Facebook for updated information about donation and volunteer needs in the weeks ahead. The association is made up of organizations that help mitigate and alleviate the impact of disasters, promoting cooperation, communication, coordination and collaboration.

 

We’re In This Together

Like many events in 2020, we are in this together. If we work side by side, we can get through this — and come out stronger than before. What local organizations or relief efforts are you passionate about supporting? Let us know what we missed in the comments below.