Thousands of firefighters are out there right now putting their lives on the line for people in Southern Oregon.
Their efforts are not going unnoticed. The fires have brought out the good in people.
Communities have banded together, organizing donations and making sure firefighters on the front lines feel the love and don’t go without.
A stack of thank you cards, a big banner made by two-to-five year olds at the Family Nurturing Center Preschool in Medford, and some home-baked cookies…they’re the ways people are showing their love and appreciation for the men and women fighting the dangerous fires in our region.
“I just got it in my head that I was going to bake a bunch of cookies so I called work and talked to them. The teachers decided they would have the kids make a banner and lots of cards and so I brought that all over here today,” said Medford resident Lisa Duncan.
“It’s just wonderful that the community appreciates the work that the firefighters are doing,” said Kathy Hardy a spokesperson for the Northern California Interagency Incident Management Team.
Advantage Tire in Medford is one of many drop-sites accepting donations.
“The outpour of donations that we’ve received has just been amazing,” said Nicole Drake, who works at Advantage Tire.
Staff said they’re collecting non-perishable food, water, toiletries, and just about anything else firefighters will need.
“We’re trying to support the local fire crews,” said Drake.
Meanwhile, in Grants Pass at the Oregon Employer Council of Josephine County, staff there said in the last two days they’ve distributed 2000 pairs of socks and they’re still accepting donations.
Even further north in Merlin signs line the streets telling passing firefighters how much they’re appreciated.
“The firemen are doing a fantastic job,” said Merlin resident Sandra Hauckes.
People all over Southern Oregon voicing their gratitude.
“We’re just so grateful for all the hard work that the firefighters do,” said Duncan.
People are pairing words with action, so fire men and women who are helping others…get the help they need.
The need varies somewhat between fire departments and other fire fighting groups. For instance some won’t take home-baked goods. However, we spoke with an official at the Wolf Creek Fire Department who said they welcome home-baked goods.
According to the Joint Incident Command Center, firefighters with the Oregon Department of Forestry, Bureau of Land Management, and the Forest Service are being provided for.
But those coordinating donation drop-offs say the small local fire departments and firefighters still need supplies.
What’s Needed
Water
Electrolyte Packets and Drinks
Handwipes firefighters can stick in their pockets
Feminine Hygiene Products
Boot-style Wool Socks
Anything that helps with Poison Oak
Nail Clippers
Paper Towels, Paper Plates
Non-perishable Food (protein bars, trail mix, on-the-go snacks, etc.)
Toothpaste, Toothbrushes
Deodorant
Shampoo
Where to Drop Off Donations
Advantage Tire at 2930 N Pacific Hwy in Medford
Habitat for Humanity Re-Store at 2233 S Pacific Hwy in Medford
The Employer Council of Josephine County on “F” Street in Grants Pass
OKG Accessories and Design at 869 Rogue Rivery Highway in Grants Pass
Shady Cove Automotive at 21825 on Highway 62
OKG Accessories and Design in Grants Pass has coordinated an effort to collect donations for local firefighters who aren’t provided for by the state. For more information call them at (541) 441-1073.
As we receive more information on donation drop-off locations we will post updates.
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