Organizers seek specific donations for fire victims

Donations have been pouring in to locations throughout the county, some being overwhelmed by the outpouring. According to Deanne Noel of Rosalia who is coordinating local efforts, the greatest need at this time is toiletries including vitamins, emergency packets, razors, shaving cream, deodorant and hairbrushes (there is no need for toothbrushes), half gallons of milk, butter, baking and pancake mixes, cheese, hoodies, baby socks, practical shoes (no high heels), duffel bags, small suitcases, totes, paper products, some baby and toddler food, cat food and litter, and kennels for pets in hotels. People can also donate gift cards for department stores, grocery store or restaurants or cash cards.

In Colfax, donations can be dropped off at P1FCU during business hours and at the Colfax Eagles 5 to 10 p.m.

United Way of Whitman County is helping coordinate donations. For those wanting to donate financially, there is a fire relief fund set up at https://donorbox.org/whitman-county-fire-relief-fund or donations can be send to United Way of Whitman County, PO Box 426, Pullman, WA 99163.

According to United Way, permanent housing for families impacted will continue to be needed as recovery efforts continue. There are specific requests for a few generators and extension cords.

Anyone who has temporary housing or a camper available to shelter people who lost their home is asked to call 509-332-3691. Victims who need shelter are encouraged to call the Red Cross at 509-670-5331. Red Cross shelter service is free. The Red Cross learned that some people in Malden and Pine City who have lost their homes incorrectly believe that they must pay for Red Cross shelter.

Donations can be dropped off in Rosalia at Gifted Granny’s Gift Shop, Rosalia Community Center, Rosalia Harvest Assembly Church and Rosalia Baptist Church. Collection site in Malden is the Malden Community Church. Noel can be reached at 828-844-4834 for specific donation information or other volunteer needs.