As crews battle wildfires spreading in the Ely area, nonprofit and government entities have been working hard behind the scenes to provide for the crews, care for evacuees, and prepare for what’s to come next.
United Way of Northeastern Minnesota (UWNEMN) is in close and regular contact with the American Red Cross, St. Louis County, and Ely Community Response to ensure clear communication and coordinated relief.
“This is the third natural disaster our organization has responded to in as many years, and we’ve learned how important it is to make sure regional leaders have a shared understanding of needs – and of who can fill which needs the fastest,” said UWNEMN Executive Director Erin Shay.
At the time of this release, organizers are not aware of any need for food, beverages, or other items at this time, though needs can quickly change.
“Over the past few days, we've seen an incredible outpouring of kindness from people across our region,” said UWNEMN Volunteer and Engagement Coordinator Emily Unhjem. “Whether you've reached out to volunteer, offered supplies, donated, or simply checked in on your neighbors, your compassion does not go unnoticed.”
Individuals looking for ways to help with relief and recovery efforts at this time are encouraged to make financial contributions to UWNEMN’s Crisis and Disaster Recovery Fund.
“People can donate to this fund year-round which enables us to respond instantly in crisis instead of needing to fundraise before we can help,” Shay said. “Donations designated to a certain community will stay in that community.”
All undesignated Crisis and Disaster Recovery Fund donations will stay local within UWNEMN’s service area (Iron Range, Koochiching County, Lake of the Woods County), Shay noted. More than $14,000 has been raised to-date with individual donations ranging from $5 to $1,000 as well as a $10,000 donation from Twin Metal Minnesota.
“Every single dollar makes a difference,” Shay said. “Funds raised now will go directly where they’re needed most – be it Ely or Babbitt or elsewhere, for whatever is needed most.”
Funds are most likely to be used at this time to cover unexpected costs for firefighters’ and emergency response teams’ supplies as well as community health supplies. However, should residences become affected, funds are also able to go directly to individuals.
“Over the last three years we’ve learned that needs vary greatly depending on the community and the disaster,” Shay said. “Our emergency response partners appreciate that because we are locally operated we are able to be flexible and nimble with our funding and can fill whatever need they may have as quickly and efficiently as possible.”
UWNEMN raised and distributed $62,000 in 2025 for Brimson fire recovery and $95,000 for flood recovery in communities across St. Louis County.
In addition to funding, UWNEMN is poised and ready to assist with local volunteer efforts as needed. Should residents lose items to the fire, UWNEMN is able to provide immediate assistance through its Comforts of Home program which can replace lost items with a referral from agencies like the Red Cross or St. Louis County.
To donate to support UWNEMN’s wildfire recovery fund, click here. Donations can also be mailed directly to 608 East Drive, Chisholm, MN 55719. Donors are requested to specify their donation is for fire recovery.
Other opportunities to help – and resources available for impacted individuals who need help – will be posted on www.unitedwaynemn.org/firehelp along with any emerging safety and health advisories. The site will be updated multiple times a day.
Donate to the Crisis and Disaster Recovery Fund
Get updates on wildfire resources