Image: Spokane Valley Fire Department
Wildfires continue to impact communities across the Spokane area in what officials have described as the largest natural disaster in the city’s history. The Spokane Complex Fire, which includes the Old Trails, Fairview, and Autumn Lane fires, has forced the evacuation of more than 60,000 residents, destroyed an estimated 600 structures, and burned more than 5,000 acres.
Many businesses, employees, and families have been directly affected, with thousands of residents facing immediate needs for shelter, food, clothing, and other essential resources. Recovery efforts are expected to continue long after the fires are contained.
Several organizations and businesses across the Inland Northwest have stepped forward to support residents impacted by the fires. Available resources include food, clothing, emergency supplies, temporary assistance, and other services:
- Lowe’s has deployed disaster relief support to Washington following the wildfires. An emergency distribution event will be held Wednesday, August 5, at 2 p.m. at the Lowe’s of Spokane Valley store, located at E. 5204 Sprague Avenue. Free totes containing clean-up and recovery supplies will be available while supplies last, with a limit of one tote per vehicle.
- Gap Inc. is supporting families impacted by the Spokane fires by offering a 50% discount at participating Spokane-area stores through August 16:
- Old Navy 5468 — Spokane Valley Mall
- Old Navy 1823 — Franklin Park (currently closed due to air quality issues)
- Gap 7501 — River Park Square
- Athleta 7084 — River Park Square
- In addition, the Gap Foundation is donating $50,000 to the American Red Cross to support relief efforts.
- Partners Inland Northwest is providing food, clothing, and diaper assistance at its Spokane Valley location. The organization is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., and no appointment is required.
- GoFundMe has established a centralized hub featuring verified fundraisers and nonprofit organizations supporting those impacted by Washington wildfires. GoFundMe.org’s Wildfire Relief Fund is also providing emergency cash grants to verified individuals who have lost homes, property, or been displaced.
- Airbnb.org is offering free emergency housing support for eligible residents displaced by wildfires in Spokane and Stevens counties through referrals from 211.
- Flatstick Pub in downtown Spokane is offering free pizza, mini golf, and Duffleboard for displaced residents needing a place to gather and recharge.
- The Garland Theater is providing donated items, including diapers, food, toiletries, blankets, clothing, and pet supplies.
- Diverse Roots, Plato’s Closet, and Global Neighborhood Thrift are providing free diapers, clothing, or vouchers for impacted residents.
- YMCA of the Inland Northwest is opening Spokane-area locations for showers and other temporary needs Monday through Friday from 5 a.m. to 9 p.m.
- City of Spokane has launched a wildfire relief effort through its H.O.M.E. Starts Here Fund to help individuals and families affected by the Spokane Area Fires.
Retailers and organizations offering support, as well as those seeking assistance, are encouraged to share their information with WR, [email protected], so resources can be connected with those who need them most.
The retail community has a long history of supporting neighbors during times of crisis. Through collaboration and shared resources, businesses and community partners can help Spokane residents recover and rebuild.
