My heart is with the tens of thousands of Washingtonians in the Spokane area who have been forced to evacuate, some of whom have lost their homes, and everyone facing uncertainty because of these devastating wildfires.

I’m deeply grateful to the firefighters, law enforcement officers, National Guard members, emergency personnel, volunteers, and local and state leaders working around the clock to protect our communities.

The Forest Service has identified this as our nation’s highest-priority fire - which means federal resources are being directed where they are urgently needed. I will continue working with federal, state, and local officials to ensure Spokane receives resources necessary to continue fighting these fires and help families recover.

We are not out of danger yet. If you are in the area, please remain vigilant, follow evacuation notices, and listen closely to first responders.

Washingtonians have always stepped up for their neighbors. If you are able to help, please consider supporting these trusted relief efforts:
 

• City of Spokane H.O.M.E. Starts Here Fund - helping individuals and families affected by the fires.
• Innovia Foundation’s Wildfire Response Fund - supporting organizations providing immediate relief and long-term recovery.
• Catholic Charities Eastern Washington - supporting disaster-response teams assisting wildfire survivors.
• Second Harvest Inland Northwest - accepting nonperishable food donations at 1234 E. Front Ave. in Spokane. Please check its website for current donation hours.

Unfortunately, disasters can also attract scams. Please donate only through trusted organizations and be cautious of unsolicited fundraising appeals or contractors approaching victims. Report suspected fraud, disaster scams, or price gouging to the Washington Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division.

To everyone affected: We are with you.

We will keep fighting to bring every available federal resource to Spokane, support our first responders, and help our communities recover.

Maria