Fire Help

wildfire in trees

Communities in United Way of Northeastern Minnesota's service area being impacted by wildfires.

UWNEMN is closely monitoring these fires and working with our colleagues in disaster relief and recovery to share the most up-to-date opportunities to seek or offer help in the communities we serve.

From U.S. Forest Service-Superior National Forest:  

  • Evacuation orders are now in affect for some areas. More may be issued.
  • When incident command and law enforcement issue an evacuation order, residents should gather their families and pets and leave for a designated evacuation site or the home of family or friends outside the fire area.
  • Make those arrangements now. Delaying evacuation preparations can interfere with fire suppression efforts and put the public and first responders at greater risk.
  • Track local Ready, Set, Go evacuation statuses.

From Minnesota Department of Natural Resources:

  • Red Flag Warnings are in effect for Cook, Koochiching, Lake and St. Louis counties due to critical fire weather conditions.
  • Please DO NOT burn in these counties.
  • Check current burning restrictions.

From Minnesota Pollution Control Agency: 

  • A MAROON air quality alert has been issued due to wildfire smoke from today through Friday, July 17, for northeast Minnesota.
  • Air quality is expected to reach the maroon AQI category, which is considered hazardous for everyone.
  • Learn how to protect yourself from poor air quality.

 

BABBITT

  • Public Shelter - 71 S Drive

ELY

  • "Third Space" - Ely's Historic State Theater
    • July 14th: Tables, chairs, air conditioning, board games, free popcorn for all movie-goers
    • July 14-16th: All firefighters receive a free movie pass.

ELY

  • Veterans on the Lake is collecting donations of Gatorade, Powerade, and water for firefighters July 14-15th.

Please note:

  • While well-intended, food and clothing donations often go to waste in disasters.
  • Contact an intended location before collecting or delivering donations.
  • Be advised that when food is needed, only donations of pre-packaged food and beverages - or food made in a commercially licensed kitchen - can be accepted.
UWNEMN has the ability to purchase large quantities of items as local leaders alert us to needs. 

Donate to support those efforts!

Checks or cash can be mailed to 608 East Drive, Chisholm, MN 55719. Please include a note that your donation is intended for wildfire recovery.

This page will be updated regularly. 
In times of crisis, information changes rapidly. Please take time to verify information before sharing, check back to this site often for verified information, and please contact katy@unitedwaynemn.org with updates you can verify!

Some resources are still available for residents recovering from last summer's wildfires:

Item Replacement

  • Justice North - 1-877-696-6529

    • Can help replace lost and damaged documents.
    • Services are free for eligible individuals.
    • Call OR begin your application online. 

 

Guidance and Support

  • American Red Cross - 218-722-0071 ext 1
    • Recovery Information - Access crucial information and get connected to community partner organizations that can provide additional resources.
    • Disaster Health Services -  Speak with trained Red Cross health services professionals about any health-related concerns. Replace medication or durable medical equipment that may have been lost in the fire. 
    • Emotional Support - Disasters are traumatic incidents. You or your loved ones can talk to Trained Red Cross Disaster Mental Health volunteers about your experiences. 
    • Spiritual Guidance - Connect with the Spiritual Care Team for spiritual support, care, and guidance.
  • Justice North - 1-877-696-6529
    • Can help with a variety of legal matters including proof of home ownership, insurance claims and denials, contractor repair scams, lease terminations, eviction prevention, access to government benefits, employment related issues, emergency custody, protective orders, and more.
    • Services are free for eligible individuals.
    • Call OR begin your application online. 
  • Disaster Distress helpline - 1-800-985-5990
    • 24/7 crisis support
    • Counseling for individuals who are experiencing emotional distress related to natural or human-caused disasters

More Resources

Safety

  • There are many factors to consider when returning to a property after a wildfire:
    • Be aware of continued risk; regularly check your property for signs of residual fires.
    • Document property damage with photographs, conduct an inventory, and contact your insurance company for assistance.
    • Wear protective clothing and respirator when cleaning.

Water

Thanks to the support of local individuals and businesses, more than $62,000 was raised in 2025, all of which went directly to Brimson fire recovery efforts.