How to Help Spokane Relief and Recovery Efforts
On Aug. 1, a series of fast-moving wildfires broke out in and around Spokane, Wash., causing widespread destruction. The Old Trails, Fairview and Autumn Lane fires, collectively known as the Spokane Complex Fire, have destroyed hundreds of homes and businesses and forced tens of thousands of residents to evacuate, leaving many communities to pick up the pieces.
In response, NAHB is working closely with state and local home builder associations across eastern Washington to meet the needs of members and their communities who are affected by the fires and to provide resources to help them rebuild.
For those looking to support the relief effort, the Spokane Home Builders Association (SHBA) is directing support to the Spokane Wildfire Disaster Relief Fund, administered through its Frame Your Future Foundation, a 501(c)3 charitable organization. All contributions are eligible for charitable tax deductions.
The Spokane Wildfire Disaster Relief Fund provides assistance and support to the communities hit hardest by the wildfires. Individuals, businesses, members and friends of the industry are encouraged to make contributions to assist the relief and recovery efforts.
Additionally, the American Red Cross is accepting donations to support its life-saving response efforts for all those affected across the region.
NAHB is also advising its members of the following resources for more information after a wildfire.
- "How Home Builders Can Help Their Communities Rebuild After a Disaster" is a best practices guide to support rebuilding.
- DisasterAssistance.gov provides information and applications for individuals and households within the impacted area to apply for federal disaster assistance.
- Small Business Administration's disaster assistance page outlines types of assistance and resources available to businesses impacted by natural disasters.
- Occupational Safety and Health Administration has a dedicated wildfire response page with job site safety guidelines and resources.
- Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has information on post-wildfire debris and toxic hazards removal.
For more information or resources on disaster recovery, please visit nahb.org/disaster.