Fire Help

wildfire in trees

Communities in United Way of Northeastern Minnesota's service area being impacted by wildfires and wildfire-related disruptions to their businesses/income.

UWNEMN continues to work closely 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. Donations are simultaneously being collected and reinvested directly to those most affected.

APPLY: Individual Assistance
APPLY: Small Business Grant
DONATE: Regional
DONATE: Ely (1 for 2 match!)
Application FAQs

NEED HELP?

Financial Assistance - Individuals

  • UWNEMN Wildfire Recovery Funding
    • Apply for one-time disbursement of $500-$1,500.
    • To qualify for this funding, individuals/families must:  
      • Live or work within the following communities in UWNEMN’s service territory: Babbitt, Buyck, Cook, Crane Lake, Ely, Embarrass, Nett Lake, Orr, Soudan, Tower, Winton, and townships between any of the aforementioned communities.
        • Funds are limited, and availability will vary based on location.
        • Funds have been raised through donations, some of which are designated for specific communities.
      • Have suffered income loss as a result of the July 2026 Lightning Incident
    • Applications will be due by 11:59 PM August 10, 2026, and funding to approved applicants will be released no later than August 17, 2026.
    • This funding will be applied directly to bills OR will be given as gift cards to local grocery stores.

Item Replacement 

  • Babbitt Thrift Store
    • No cost for families affected by the fires. Take what you need to help get through this difficult time.
    • 1 - 5 PM Wednesday–Friday; 11 AM - 3 PM Saturday
    • 31 Central Blvd #400, Zups Parking Lot
    • If in need when store is closed, text what you need to 218-248-2299

Mental Health Resources:

Resource Connection:

  • Call 2-1-1 to speak with someone 24/7/365.
    • Minnesota-based call center has access to a comprehensive list of local resources.
    • Tell them your situation, and they'll tell you what help is available and where.
    • Dial 2-1-1, text your zip code to 898-211, or search their database online.

Small Business Support:

  • Entrepreneur Fund
    • Microloans
    • No-cost advising
  • Small Business Development Center
    • No-cost services are being expedited at this time.
    • Assistance available for planning, managing, and growing (including marketing!)
  • UWNEMN Wildfire Recovery Grant
    • Apply for grants ranging from $2,500 to $10,000.
    • To qualify for this funding, businesses must:  
      • Be located in one of the following communities in UWNEMN’s service territory: Babbitt, Buyck, Cook, Crane Lake, Ely, Embarrass, Nett Lake, Orr, Soudan, Tower, Winton, and townships between any of the aforementioned communities.
        • Funds are limited, and availability will vary based on location.
        • Funds have been raised through donations, some of which are designated for specific communities.
      • Have suffered business loss due to the July 2026 Lightning Incident. 
      • Be in good standing with the Minnesota Secretary of State.
      • Utilize available insurance. 
      • Intend to re-open. 
    • Applications will be due by 11:59 PM August 10, 2026, and funding to approved applicants will be released no later than August 17, 2026.
    • This funding will be restricted to business related expenses including payroll assistance; rent, mortgage, and/or utility costs; payments to suppliers; and equipment necessary for business operation.
    • Additional funding may become available at a later date.

Financial Assistance - Individuals

  • UWNEMN Wildfire Recovery Funding
    • Apply for one-time disbursement of $500-$1,500.
    • To qualify for this funding, individuals/families must:  
      • Live or work within the following communities in UWNEMN’s service territory: Babbitt, Buyck, Cook, Crane Lake, Ely, Embarrass, Nett Lake, Orr, Soudan, Tower, Winton, and townships between any of the aforementioned communities.
        • Funds are limited, and availability will vary based on location.
        • Funds have been raised through donations, some of which are designated for specific communities.
      • Have suffered income loss as a result of the July 2026 Lightning Incident
    • Applications will be due by 11:59 PM August 10, 2026, and funding to approved applicants will be released no later than August 17, 2026.
    • This funding will be applied directly to bills OR will be given as gift cards to local grocery stores.

Mental Health Resources:

Resource Connection:

  • Call 2-1-1 to speak with someone 24/7/365.
    • Minnesota-based call center has access to a comprehensive list of local resources.
    • Tell them your situation, and they'll tell you what help is available and where.
    • Dial 2-1-1, text your zip code to 898-211, or search their database online.

Small Business Support:

  • Entrepreneur Fund
    • Microloans
    • No-cost advising
  • Small Business Development Center
    • No-cost services are being expedited at this time.
    • Assistance available for planning, managing, and growing (including marketing!)
  • UWNEMN Wildfire Recovery Grant
    • Apply for grants ranging from $2,500 to $10,000.
    • To qualify for this funding, businesses must:  
      • Be located in one of the following communities in UWNEMN’s service territory: Babbitt, Buyck, Cook, Crane Lake, Ely, Embarrass, Nett Lake, Orr, Soudan, Tower, Winton, and townships between any of the aforementioned communities.
        • Funds are limited, and availability will vary based on location.
        • Funds have been raised through donations, some of which are designated for specific communities.
      • Have suffered business loss due to the July 2026 Lightning Incident. 
      • Be in good standing with the Minnesota Secretary of State.
      • Utilize available insurance. 
      • Intend to re-open. 
    • Applications will be due by 11:59 PM August 10, 2026, and funding to approved applicants will be released no later than August 17, 2026.
    • This funding will be restricted to business related expenses including payroll assistance; rent, mortgage, and/or utility costs; payments to suppliers; and equipment necessary for business operation.
    • Additional funding may become available at a later date.

N95 Masks

  • United Way of Northeastern Minnesota
    • 8 AM - 4 PM Monday - Friday (office closed Fridays, but masks will be in front entry)
    • 608 East Drive, Chisholm MN 55719

Resource Connection:

  • Call 2-1-1 to speak with someone 24/7/365.
    • Minnesota-based call center has access to a comprehensive list of local resources.
    • Tell them your situation, and they'll tell you what help is available and where.
    • Dial 2-1-1, text your zip code to 898-211, or search their database online.

Financial Assistance - Individuals

  • UWNEMN Wildfire Recovery Funding
    • Apply for one-time disbursement of $500-$1,500.
    • To qualify for this funding, individuals/families must:  
      • Live or work within the following communities in UWNEMN’s service territory: Babbitt, Buyck, Cook, Crane Lake, Ely, Embarrass, Nett Lake, Orr, Soudan, Tower, Winton, and townships between any of the aforementioned communities.
        • Funds are limited, and availability will vary based on location.
        • Funds have been raised through donations, some of which are designated for specific communities.
      • Have suffered income loss as a result of the July 2026 Lightning Incident
    • Applications will be due by 11:59 PM August 10, 2026, and funding to approved applicants will be released no later than August 17, 2026.
    • This funding will be applied directly to bills OR will be given as gift cards to local grocery stores.

Indoor Smoke Relief

  • Cook Public Library - 103 S River St, Cook, MN 55723
    • Monday: 9 AM - 5 PM
    • Tuesday: 9 AM - 5 PM
    • Wednesday: 9 AM - 5:30 PM
    • Thursday: 9 AM - 5 PM

Mental Health Resources

N95 Masks

  • Cook Government Service Center
    • 8 AM - 4:30 PM Monday - Friday
    • 9558 Sahawa Road, Cook, MN 55723
  • Scenic Rivers Health Services - 20 5th St SE, Cook, MN 55723
    • Limited supply.
  • Zup's - 201 US-53, Cook, MN 55723
    • Free to customers while supplies last.

Resource Connection

  • Call 2-1-1 to speak with someone 24/7/365.
    • Minnesota-based call center has access to a comprehensive list of local resources.
    • Tell them your situation, and they'll tell you what help is available and where.
    • Dial 2-1-1, text your zip code to 898-211, or search their database online.

Small Business Support:

  • Entrepreneur Fund
    • Microloans
    • No-cost advising
  • Small Business Development Center
    • No-cost services are being expedited at this time.
    • Assistance available for planning, managing, and growing (including marketing!)
  • UWNEMN Wildfire Recovery Grant
    • Apply for grants ranging from $2,500 to $10,000.
    • To qualify for this funding, businesses must:  
      • Be located in one of the following communities in UWNEMN’s service territory: Babbitt, Buyck, Cook, Crane Lake, Ely, Embarrass, Nett Lake, Orr, Soudan, Tower, Winton, and townships between any of the aforementioned communities.
        • Funds are limited, and availability will vary based on location.
        • Funds have been raised through donations, some of which are designated for specific communities.
      • Have suffered business loss due to the July 2026 Lightning Incident. 
      • Be in good standing with the Minnesota Secretary of State.
      • Utilize available insurance. 
      • Intend to re-open. 
    • Applications will be due by 11:59 PM August 10, 2026, and funding to approved applicants will be released no later than August 17, 2026.
    • This funding will be restricted to business related expenses including payroll assistance; rent, mortgage, and/or utility costs; payments to suppliers; and equipment necessary for business operation.
    • Additional funding may become available at a later date.

Financial Assistance - Individuals

  • UWNEMN Wildfire Recovery Funding
    • Apply for one-time disbursement of $500-$1,500.
    • To qualify for this funding, individuals/families must:  
      • Live or work within the following communities in UWNEMN’s service territory: Babbitt, Buyck, Cook, Crane Lake, Ely, Embarrass, Nett Lake, Orr, Soudan, Tower, Winton, and townships between any of the aforementioned communities.
        • Funds are limited, and availability will vary based on location.
        • Funds have been raised through donations, some of which are designated for specific communities.
      • Have suffered income loss as a result of the July 2026 Lightning Incident
    • Applications will be due by 11:59 PM August 10, 2026, and funding to approved applicants will be released no later than August 17, 2026.
    • This funding will be applied directly to bills OR will be given as gift cards to local grocery stores.

Mental Health Resources:

Resource Connection:

  • Call 2-1-1 to speak with someone 24/7/365.
    • Minnesota-based call center has access to a comprehensive list of local resources.
    • Tell them your situation, and they'll tell you what help is available and where.
    • Dial 2-1-1, text your zip code to 898-211, or search their database online.

Small Business Support:

  • Entrepreneur Fund
    • Microloans
    • No-cost advising
  • Small Business Development Center
    • No-cost services are being expedited at this time.
    • Assistance available for planning, managing, and growing (including marketing!)
  • UWNEMN Wildfire Recovery Grant
    • Apply for grants ranging from $2,500 to $10,000.
    • To qualify for this funding, businesses must:  
      • Be located in one of the following communities in UWNEMN’s service territory: Babbitt, Buyck, Cook, Crane Lake, Ely, Embarrass, Nett Lake, Orr, Soudan, Tower, Winton, and townships between any of the aforementioned communities.
        • Funds are limited, and availability will vary based on location.
        • Funds have been raised through donations, some of which are designated for specific communities.
      • Have suffered business loss due to the July 2026 Lightning Incident. 
      • Be in good standing with the Minnesota Secretary of State.
      • Utilize available insurance. 
      • Intend to re-open. 
    • Applications will be due by 11:59 PM August 10, 2026, and funding to approved applicants will be released no later than August 17, 2026.
    • This funding will be restricted to business related expenses including payroll assistance; rent, mortgage, and/or utility costs; payments to suppliers; and equipment necessary for business operation.
    • Additional funding may become available at a later date.

Connect to Multiple Resources

  • Ely Community Response
    • Let Ely Community Response know what you need using this form, and they will connect you with someone who can meet your need.
  • Call 2-1-1 to speak with someone 24/7/365.
    • Minnesota-based call center has access to a comprehensive list of local resources.
    • Tell them your situation, and they'll tell you what help is available and where.
    • Dial 2-1-1, text your zip code to 898-211, or search their database online.

Family Support

Financial Assistance - Individuals

  • UWNEMN Wildfire Recovery Funding
    • Apply for one-time disbursement of $500-$1,500.
    • To qualify for this funding, individuals/families must:  
      • Live or work within the following communities in UWNEMN’s service territory: Babbitt, Buyck, Cook, Crane Lake, Ely, Embarrass, Nett Lake, Orr, Soudan, Tower, Winton, and townships between any of the aforementioned communities.
        • Funds are limited, and availability will vary based on location.
        • Funds have been raised through donations, some of which are designated for specific communities.
      • Have suffered income loss as a result of the July 2026 Lightning Incident
    • Applications will be due by 11:59 PM August 10, 2026, and funding to approved applicants will be released no later than August 17, 2026.
    • This funding will be applied directly to bills OR will be given as gift cards to local grocery stores.

Food

Mental Health Resources:

N95 Masks

  • Ely St. Louis County Service Center
    • 8 AM - 4:30 PM Monday - Friday
      320 Miners Drive E, Ely MN 55731

Pet Boarding

  • Variety of options posted here.

Senior and Caregiver Support  

  • Northwoods Partners
    • Classes are currently canceled, but help is available to get essentials to local seniors to keep them healthy and safe.
    • Call 218-365-8019 with questions.

Shelter

Small Business Support

  • Ely Community Response can provide free HR consulting through the end of 2027 for small businesses in Ely affected by wildfires.
  • Ely State Theater is featuring local businesses for free before shows in August.
  • Entreprenuer Fund
    • Microloans
    • No-cost advising
  • Small Business Development Center
    • No-cost services are being expedited at this time.
    • Assistance available for planning, managing, and growing (including marketing!)
  • UWNEMN Wildfire Recovery Grant
    • Apply for grants ranging from $2,500 to $10,000.
    • To qualify for this funding, businesses must:  
      • Be located in one of the following communities in UWNEMN’s service territory: Babbitt, Buyck, Cook, Crane Lake, Ely, Embarrass, Nett Lake, Orr, Soudan, Tower, Winton, and townships between any of the aforementioned communities.
        • Funds are limited, and availability will vary based on location.
        • Funds have been raised through donations, some of which are designated for specific communities.
      • Have suffered business loss due to the July 2026 Lightning Incident. 
      • Be in good standing with the Minnesota Secretary of State.
      • Utilize available insurance. 
      • Intend to re-open. 
    • Applications will be due by 11:59 PM August 10, 2026, and funding to approved applicants will be released no later than August 17, 2026.
    • This funding will be restricted to business related expenses including payroll assistance; rent, mortgage, and/or utility costs; payments to suppliers; and equipment necessary for business operation.
    • Additional funding may become available at a later date.

Small Instrument Storage

Wildfire Mitigation

  • B&B Property Maintenance
    • Wildfire mitigation around homes and structures to reduce fire risk.
    • Will spend up to 4 hours per property.
    • Free of charge - tips appreciated but never expected.

Camping

Financial Assistance - Individuals

  • UWNEMN Wildfire Recovery Funding
    • Apply for one-time disbursement of $500-$1,500.
    • To qualify for this funding, individuals/families must:  
      • Live or work within the following communities in UWNEMN’s service territory: Babbitt, Buyck, Cook, Crane Lake, Ely, Embarrass, Nett Lake, Orr, Soudan, Tower, Winton, and townships between any of the aforementioned communities.
        • Funds are limited, and availability will vary based on location.
        • Funds have been raised through donations, some of which are designated for specific communities.
      • Have suffered income loss as a result of the July 2026 Lightning Incident
    • Applications will be due by 11:59 PM August 10, 2026, and funding to approved applicants will be released no later than August 17, 2026.
    • This funding will be applied directly to bills OR will be given as gift cards to local grocery stores.

Mental Health Resources:

Resource Connection:

  • Call 2-1-1 to speak with someone 24/7/365.
    • Minnesota-based call center has access to a comprehensive list of local resources.
    • Tell them your situation, and they'll tell you what help is available and where.
    • Dial 2-1-1, text your zip code to 898-211, or search their database online.

Small Business Support:

  • Entrepreneur Fund
    • Microloans
    • No-cost advising
  • Small Business Development Center
    • No-cost services are being expedited at this time.
    • Assistance available for planning, managing, and growing (including marketing!)
  • UWNEMN Wildfire Recovery Grant
    • Apply for grants ranging from $2,500 to $10,000.
    • To qualify for this funding, businesses must:  
      • Be located in one of the following communities in UWNEMN’s service territory: Babbitt, Buyck, Cook, Crane Lake, Ely, Embarrass, Nett Lake, Orr, Soudan, Tower, Winton, and townships between any of the aforementioned communities.
        • Funds are limited, and availability will vary based on location.
        • Funds have been raised through donations, some of which are designated for specific communities.
      • Have suffered business loss due to the July 2026 Lightning Incident. 
      • Be in good standing with the Minnesota Secretary of State.
      • Utilize available insurance. 
      • Intend to re-open. 
    • Applications will be due by 11:59 PM August 10, 2026, and funding to approved applicants will be released no later than August 17, 2026.
    • This funding will be restricted to business related expenses including payroll assistance; rent, mortgage, and/or utility costs; payments to suppliers; and equipment necessary for business operation.
    • Additional funding may become available at a later date.

Indoor Smoke Relief:

  • Hibbing Public Library - 2020 5th Avenue East, Hibbing
    • Mondays-Thursdays: 10am-6pm
    • Fridays: 10am-5pm
    • Saturday & Sunday: Closed

Mental Health Resources:

N95 Masks 

  • Hibbing Salvation Army
    • Message on Facebook or stop by in-person.
    • 107 W Howard St, Hibbing, MN 55746
  • St. Louis County Public Health & Human Services
    • 8 AM - 4:30 PM Monday - Friday
    • 1814 14th Ave. E, Hibbing MN 55746

Resource Connection:

  • Call 2-1-1 to speak with someone 24/7/365.
    • Minnesota-based call center has access to a comprehensive list of local resources.
    • Tell them your situation, and they'll tell you what help is available and where.
    • Dial 2-1-1, text your zip code to 898-211, or search their database online.

Mental Health Resources

N95 Masks 

Resource Connection

  • Call 2-1-1 to speak with someone 24/7/365.
    • Minnesota-based call center has access to a comprehensive list of local resources.
    • Tell them your situation, and they'll tell you what help is available and where.
    • Dial 2-1-1, text your zip code to 898-211, or search their database online.

Financial Assistance - Individuals

  • UWNEMN Wildfire Recovery Funding
    • Apply for  of $500-$1,500.
    • To qualify for this funding, individuals/families must:  
      • Live or work within the following communities in UWNEMN’s service territory: Babbitt, Buyck, Cook, Crane Lake, Ely, Embarrass, Nett Lake, Orr, Soudan, Tower, Winton, and townships between any of the aforementioned communities.
        • Funds are limited, and availability will vary based on location.
        • Funds have been raised through donations, some of which are designated for specific communities.
      • Have suffered income loss as a result of the July 2026 Lightning Incident
    • Applications will be due by 11:59 PM August 10, 2026, and funding to approved applicants will be released no later than August 17, 2026.
    • This funding will be applied directly to bills OR will be given as gift cards to local grocery stores.

Mental Health Resources:

Resource Connection:

  • Call 2-1-1 to speak with someone 24/7/365.
    • Minnesota-based call center has access to a comprehensive list of local resources.
    • Tell them your situation, and they'll tell you what help is available and where.
    • Dial 2-1-1, text your zip code to 898-211, or search their database online.

Small Business Support:

  • Entrepreneur Fund
    • Microloans
    • No-cost advising
  • Small Business Development Center
    • No-cost services are being expedited at this time.
    • Assistance available for planning, managing, and growing (including marketing!)
  • UWNEMN Wildfire Recovery Grant
    • Apply for grants ranging from $2,500 to $10,000.
    • To qualify for this funding, businesses must:  
      • Be located in one of the following communities in UWNEMN’s service territory: Babbitt, Buyck, Cook, Crane Lake, Ely, Embarrass, Nett Lake, Orr, Soudan, Tower, Winton, and townships between any of the aforementioned communities.
        • Funds are limited, and availability will vary based on location.
        • Funds have been raised through donations, some of which are designated for specific communities.
      • Have suffered business loss due to the July 2026 Lightning Incident. 
      • Be in good standing with the Minnesota Secretary of State.
      • Utilize available insurance. 
      • Intend to re-open. 
    • Applications will be due by 11:59 PM August 10, 2026, and funding to approved applicants will be released no later than August 17, 2026.
    • This funding will be restricted to business related expenses including payroll assistance; rent, mortgage, and/or utility costs; payments to suppliers; and equipment necessary for business operation.
    • Additional funding may become available at a later date.

Financial Assistance - Individuals

  • UWNEMN Wildfire Recovery Funding
    • Apply for one-time disbursement of $500-$1,500.
    • To qualify for this funding, individuals/families must:  
      • Live or work within the following communities in UWNEMN’s service territory: Babbitt, Buyck, Cook, Crane Lake, Ely, Embarrass, Nett Lake, Orr, Soudan, Tower, Winton, and townships between any of the aforementioned communities.
        • Funds are limited, and availability will vary based on location.
        • Funds have been raised through donations, some of which are designated for specific communities.
      • Have suffered income loss as a result of the July 2026 Lightning Incident
    • Applications will be due by 11:59 PM August 10, 2026, and funding to approved applicants will be released no later than August 17, 2026.
    • This funding will be applied directly to bills OR will be given as gift cards to local grocery stores.

Indoor Smoke Relief

  • Tower Civic Center - 402 Pine Street, Tower
    • 8:00am - 4:30pm Mon-Fri

Mental Health Resources

Resource Connection

  • Call 2-1-1 to speak with someone 24/7/365.
    • Minnesota-based call center has access to a comprehensive list of local resources.
    • Tell them your situation, and they'll tell you what help is available and where.
    • Dial 2-1-1, text your zip code to 898-211, or search their database online.

Small Business Support:

  • Entrepreneur Fund
    • Microloans
    • No-cost advising
  • Small Business Development Center
    • No-cost services are being expedited at this time.
    • Assistance available for planning, managing, and growing (including marketing!)
  • UWNEMN Wildfire Recovery Grant
    • Apply for grants ranging from $2,500 to $10,000.
    • To qualify for this funding, businesses must:  
      • Be located in one of the following communities in UWNEMN’s service territory: Babbitt, Buyck, Cook, Crane Lake, Ely, Embarrass, Nett Lake, Orr, Soudan, Tower, Winton, and townships between any of the aforementioned communities.
        • Funds are limited, and availability will vary based on location.
        • Funds have been raised through donations, some of which are designated for specific communities.
      • Have suffered business loss due to the July 2026 Lightning Incident. 
      • Be in good standing with the Minnesota Secretary of State.
      • Utilize available insurance. 
      • Intend to re-open. 
    • Applications will be due by 11:59 PM August 10, 2026, and funding to approved applicants will be released no later than August 17, 2026.
    • This funding will be restricted to business related expenses including payroll assistance; rent, mortgage, and/or utility costs; payments to suppliers; and equipment necessary for business operation.
    • Additional funding may become available at a later date.

Shelter 

  • Fortune Bay Resort & Casino
    • Limited number of free RV parking spaces available for evacuees who need a place to park their RV.
    • No electrical or sewer hookups available; generators are welcome.
    • Limited parking available for boats.
    • Hotel room availability may be limited due to current occupancy.
      • If unable to accommodate you, Fortune Bay is working with other area hotels to help connect evacuees with available lodging whenever possible.
    • Call front desk for inquiries.

Indoor Smoke Relief

  • Virginia Public Library - 215 South 5th Avenue, Virginia
    • Mondays-Thursdays: 10am-6pm
    • Fridays: 10am-5pm
    • Saturday & Sunday: Closed
  • Iron Trail Motors Event Center - 919 6th St S, Virginia
    • Monday- Sunday 6 am-10 pm

Mental Health Resources

N95 Masks

  • Virginia Government Services Center
    • Public Health and Human Services (PHHS) Front Desk
    • 8 AM - 4:30 PM Monday - Friday
    • 201 South 3rd Ave., Virginia, MN 55792

Resource Connection

  • Call 2-1-1 to speak with someone 24/7/365.
    • Minnesota-based call center has access to a comprehensive list of local resources.
    • Tell them your situation, and they'll tell you what help is available and where.
    • Dial 2-1-1, text your zip code to 898-211, or search their database online.

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

  • Evacuation orders are now in effect 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:

From Minnesota Pollution Control Agency: 

WANT TO HELP?

Ely Community Response

  • Resource Connection: Let Ely Community Response know if you have something you're willing to share or a service you're willing to provide using this form, and they will connect you with someone who needs your help.
  • Support local businesses!

Anonymous donors have committed $50,000 toward a “1 for 2” match for the Ely Wildfire Recovery Fund, adding an additional dollar for every $2 donated! The first $25,000 has been matched. Help us reach the next match!

Donations made below are 100% tax deductible and will go directly to crisis response and recovery efforts related to the Ely area wildfire. 

 

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

United Way of Northeastern Minnesota does not apply an administrative fee to any individual donations made to crisis funds.

Applications are now open for Ely-area individuals and small businesses to access these funds. 

Disasters do not know borders. 
UWNEMN's Crisis and Disaster Recovery Fund supports communities across our service area. 

Donations made below are 100% tax deductible, can be designated for a specific community or purpose, and will help us support relief efforts now AND assist with long-term recovery 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.

United Way of Northeastern Minnesota does not apply an administrative fee to any individual donations made to crisis funds.

Applications are now open for individuals and small businesses in Babbitt, Buyck, Cook, Crane Lake, Embarrass, Nett Lake, Orr, Soudan, Tower, or nearby townships to access these funds!

UWNEMN has been in touch with local and regional emergency response leaders and are not aware of any other needs for food, beverages, items, or volunteers at this time beyond those listed above.

  • Firefighters' food and shelter needs are handled by the U. S. Forest Service, and water/food have been collected for visiting crews.
    • Visiting crews may occasionally need assistance with shelter.
    • Willing to offer lodging? Consider filling out Ely Community Response's online form so they can connect you when alerted to a need.
  • 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/labeled as such - can be accepted.
  • Requested items and donation locations will be posted here as we become aware of them. 


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.