Fire Help

grass growing out of charred ground

Communities in United Way of Northeastern Minnesota's service area are beginning to recover from recent wildfires.

 

Funding

  • Primary Residences

    • UWNEMN's Wildfire Recovery Fund can provide up to $5,000 to property owners (primary residences) impacted by May-June 2025 wildfires. 

      • The fund is still accepting donations:

        • Online here

        • Mailed to 608 East Drive, Chisholm MN 55719 (be sure to indicate in writing that gift is intended for fire relief)

    • American Red Cross - 218-722-0071 ext 1

      • Recovery Financial Assistance - Those whose primary residence was destroyed or sustained major damage may qualify for recovery financial assistance whether the homeowner or renting the home. Financial assistance empowers families to take control of their recovery and decide their next steps by helping to replace clothing, defray temporary housing expenses or offset any other critical needs. 
        • American Red Cross can refer impacted individuals they're working with to UWNEMN's Wildfire Recovery fund.

     

  • Any Residences

    • *Veterans* Crisis funding is available to local veterans through UWNEMN's United for Veterans initiative.

 

Item Replacement

  • UWNEMN's Comforts of Home program provides new home essentials at no cost

    • Any agency you are already working with can make a referral for you to come to our building and select the items that fit your needs and tastes OR call 218-215-2570 to speak directly with our program coordinator

  • 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. 

 

Clean-up Considerations

  • UWNEMN strongly encourages you to fill out this form from the St. Louis County Sheriff's office.
    • The information you share will be used for future communication relating to potential relief, so it is important that you take time and care in providing accurate information.
  • There are many factors to consider when returning home after a wildfire:
    • Be aware of continued risk; regularly check your property for sings 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.
    • Be aware that septic system lids may be damaged and need replacing. 
    • St. Louis County Public Health has MDH private well testing kits for distribution to residents impacted by May-June 2025 wildfires. 

Reminder:

"Stay Vigilant: Fire Season Is Not Over Yet"
Click HERE for the most up-to-date information on the state of the Jenkins Creek wildfire