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Dear Friend,
We began the new year on a harrowing note. At the end of 2021, up to 1,000 homes in Boulder County were lost in the devastating Marshall Fire. So many Coloradans were harmed by this tragedy. During this challenging time, we will support our families, friends, neighbors, and colleagues. That’s what we do here in Colorado.

So many have reached out asking how they can help. When I visited the YMCA shelter, they reported having so many supplies that they asked people not to bring food directly to the shelter. That’s good news that the initial response was overwhelming, but helping with long term needs begins now. Over the days and weeks ahead, so many will be needing support. For those able to donate, the Red Cross ([link removed]) , which is coordinating local responses, and the Boulder Community Foundation ([link removed]) , which is managing a fund to respond to the tragedy, are two good options. And for those able to offer housing to those who lost their homes, the Airbnb ([link removed]) Open Homes Program is another way to offer housing options to others.

For those harmed by the fire, our office will do what we can to support those filing insurance claims as well as support relief efforts for those who lack insurance. Important for everyone: please be on the lookout for scammers pretending to provide support for those in need or assist in the insurance claims process. If you encounter any such scammers, please report them to StopFraudColorado.gov, so my office can take action against fraudsters that would take advantage of this tragedy.

Finally, we must allow ourselves to cope with and manage the pain, trauma, and anxiety brought on by a year filled with tragedies–Covid cases, deadly shootings in Denver, Boulder, and other communities, and the wildfires in Boulder County. It was a very hard year. To support one another, and those grappling with their own mental health, please be there for one another. And for those needing help, Colorado Crisis Services ([link removed]) is available.
Together, we will get through this challenging time. May the new year be healing, peace, and health to us all.
Phil

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