One week ago, the Marshall Fire caught Boulder County by surprise just as everyone was getting ready to celebrate the new year. The situation turned worse due to the high winds present on December 30th. In just one day, the blaze caused more damage than any other fire in Colorado history, destroying over 1,000 homes, devastating local families, and claiming the lives of at least two people and too many pets to fathom. Many local families are starting the new year with nothing but the clothes they had on their back and are relying on the community to help them mourn, get back on their feet, and take the first steps toward rebuilding their lives. We are all one community here in the Denver Metro Area and for those looking to help, we've rounded up some great ways to do just that.
DONATE MONEY
The best way to help victims of the Marshall Fire is to donate financially. By donating to local organizations that are at the center of relief efforts, you can be sure that your donation is alleviating current and critical needs. Here are some quick links to organizations with boots on the ground in the affected areas:
- Community Foundation Boulder
- Boulder Office of Emergency Management
- Colorado Police Officers Foundation
- Red Cross
Sister Carmen, at 655 Aspen Ridge Drive in Lafayette, is also accepting gift cards in $100 increments to Walmart, Target, King Soopers, Costco, and local restaurants.
If you want to feel more connected to where your donation is going, there are several GoFundMe pages set up for local residents in need. You could donate to several people in need this way and even get kids involved in deciding how to divvy up the amount you've set aside.
DONATE TIME
Currently there isn't a high need for volunteer services, but once cleanup efforts begin that need will ramp up. Register a new volunteer account through Colorado Responds to be notified when volunteer opportunities arise and sign up for shifts.
If you happen to be a licensed and insured mental health professional and would like to donate your services to fire victims through Spark the Change Mental Wellness Programs, contact kgroen@sparththechangecolorado.org.
DONATE SHELTER
One of the greatest immediate needs is shelter. Many of the Marshall fire victims are couch surfing at the moment. If you have an Airbnb or rental that you can offer, it will give families a place to regroup while they figure out their next move. To participate, you can register with Airbnb's Open Homes Program.
Some good news in the aftermath of the fire: While many animals tragically lost their lives in the fire, the Humane Society of Boulder has been able to reunite over 40 pets with their families and is holding several more until their owner's secure a more stable living situation. To help with pet reunification efforts, the best way is to make a donation to the Humane Society of Boulder Valley at boulderhumane.org.
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