Spirit of giving is still going strong after wildfire wanes
The outpouring of support Colorado Springs has shown during the Waldo Canyon fire has continued in the aftermath — with much of it aimed at victims of the fire.
The fire resulted in the deaths of two people, destroyed 346 homes and numerous buildings at the Flying W Ranch, and burned 18,247 acres.
Pikes Peak United Way announced Wednesday that $561,678 has been raised for the Waldo Canyon Fire Victim Assistance Fund.
The fund was formed in collaboration with the El Pomar Foundation, which donated $125,000. Combined online and telephone donations totaled $192,975, an additional $158,296 came from corporations and small businesses, and $85,407 was donated at a July 4 concert at the World Arena.
J.D. Dallager, CEO of Pikes Peak United Way, said, “We’re very overwhelmed by the contributions. We always wish we could do more, but the support has been high on so many levels here in the community. The support has been amazing.”
Dallager expects additional contributions to come in. “We’re very appreciative of everyone’s support,” he said.
All funds will stay in the Pikes Peak region and will support organizations that are helping people affected by the Waldo Canyon fire in El Paso and Teller counties.
The fund will try to meet the short-term needs of those needing assistance.
Within the next week, an Allocations Advisory Board of five to seven individuals will be created to review grant applications from organizations that are directly assisting victims.
Pikes Peak United Way is in the process of selecting people to serve on the board.
According to a news release, these people will represent the community and have “experience addressing the needs of those affected.”
Organizations are waiting to learn how to apply for a grant.
“We will apply as soon as we learn how to apply,” said Lynne Telford, president of Care and Share. “For the Waldo Canyon fire, we generally use donations to buy things people can’t donate, such as fresh perishable foods.
“People have been so generous. I have a lot of confidence that they will do it well.”