Creek Fire: Here's how you can help people, first responders impacted by massive wildfire
The fast-moving wildfire has forced tens of thousands from their homes. Here are ways you can help:
FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- After the Creek Fire forced thousands of people across Fresno and Madera counties to evacuate and destroyed nearly 1,000 homes, it didn't take long for the Central Valley to want to lend a helping hand.
If you're looking to help evacuees and firefighters, here are four ways you can do so.
1) DONATE MONEY OR VOLUNTEER
American Red Cross
The Red Cross Central California is looking for financial donations to help arrange for temporary or long-term shelter for people left without homes. You can make a donation to the Red Cross Disaster Relief by visiting the Red Cross website here.
They also are in need of volunteers for various positions. Click here for more information.
FLAG Central Valley
The Front Line Appreciation Group (FLAG) is raising funds to support both small businesses and first responders battling the Creek Fire. They've sent hundreds of meals prepared by local restaurants for crews at the fire line. If you'd like to donate funds to feed firefighters, deputies, National Guard, and other first responders, click here.
Sudz
The owners of Sudz, a laundromat in northwest Fresno, have been picking up bags of laundry from evacuation centers, and washing and folding them. They need volunteers to help them fold the laundry, and you can contact them here.
2) DONATE ITEMS
Ace Hardware in Prather is serving as the Valley's main center for collection and distribution of donations for Creek Fire victims. The donation center was earlier at Clovis Hills Community Church but was shifted to move it closer to mountain residents.
Other Valley locations serving as donation centers:
Here are some items that are needed. We suggest you contact the donation center you plan to visit ahead of time to find out what they need:
3) BUY FROM LOCAL BUSINESSES RAISING FUNDS
Several local businesses have organized fundraisers for Creek Fire victims.
4) CARE FOR DISPLACED ANIMALS
Hundreds of animals have also been displaced by the Creek Fire, many belonging to families who were forced to evacuate. Here are some organizations that are looking after them.
Central California Animal Disaster Team
WHAT THEY NEED: Funds, volunteers
The Central California Animal Disaster Team is a volunteer organization that sets up emergency shelters for animals during disasters. If you'd like to donate, click here. If you'd like to help volunteer, click here.
Evolution Quarter Horses
WHAT THEY NEED: Funds, volunteers
Clovis resident Blake Cadigan has been traveling with a team of volunteers, rescuing animals and livestock left behind by evacuees, building fences for returning residents, and arranging homes for animals that can no longer be housed. They are welcoming donations through online apps, via GoFundMe, or even cash or checks.
They also welcome volunteers of all ages, including Scouts, and FFA and 4H students who want to fulfil community service hours.
Fresno Fairgrounds
WHAT THEY NEED: Funds, items, volunteers
Hundreds of animals belonging to evacuees, including cats, dogs, horses and livestock, are being housed at the Fresno Fairgrounds. Organizers there are in need of items for the animals' care, such as paper towels, trash bags, liquid laundry soap and non-clumping cat litter.
They also need volunteers. You can find more information here.
You can also donate funds for the organizations caring for the animals - to Fresno Humane here - or to the Central California Animal Disaster Team here.
Click here for the latest stories, videos from the Creek Fire.
