United Way of Northern Arizona — TUNNEL FIRE: Crisis Response Fund Update

Northern Arizona University, Nestle Purina, Suddenlink and OneAZ Credit Union are leading the way in providing funds to help those who have been impacted by the Tunnel Fire. Together they have contributed $45,000 to the United Way of Northern Arizona Crisis Response Fund.

These funds will be used to help people impacted by the fire meet immediate needs and offer assistance as they rebuild and recover. The blaze, which as of last night was 89% contained, has destroyed more than 100 structures, including 30 homes northeast of Flagstaff.

Within a day of our asking for contributions to the fund, NAU President José Luis Cruz Rivera authorized a $25,000 donation from the university, and urged the NAU community to also donate.

Nestle Purina PetCare has pledged $10,000 to the fund to help the pets and people who were displaced by the fire.

“Our hearts are with those affected by the devastating wildfires burning in the southwest, especially with our associates and neighbors in Flagstaff who have been displaced by the Tunnel Fire,” said Kim Beardslee, Director of Community Affairs at Purina.

Suddenlink has also stepped up for our community with a $5,000 donation. And OneAZ Credit Union gave $5,000 to both the UWNA Crisis Response Fund and Coconino Humane Association, which has taken in more than 100 evacuated pets.

Individuals have also been generous, with scores of you contributing. We are grateful for all donations big and small and heartened by the response from our community during this time of great need.

Volunteer Update: People have also been letting us know they want to donate their time as well as their money. As of yesterday, we’ve had 51 new registrations on our Volunteer Hub web page.

At this point, no volunteer events have been scheduled as the County is still evaluating properties, permissions and the scope of work needed from volunteers. As soon as we can schedule an event, we will let you know.

Thank you all again for Living United.