The Oak Ridge Fire has prompted the Phoenix Indian Center to launch a donation drive, offering support to the individuals and families grappling with the devastating effects of the wildfire near the Navajo Nation capital. Having ignited on June 28, the blaze has rampaged through more than 10,000 acres. ABC 15 reports that the Phoenix Indian Center is requesting items like towels, bedding, and non-perishable food, which can be dropped off at their location in Phoenix.
Triggered just eight miles southwest of Window Rock, the Oak Ridge Fire has forced hundreds of residents from their homes, with an exodus of over 350 people taking place over a three-day span. Pushing the fire outward by six miles in a brief period on Monday night, reports detailed "200-foot flames" overtaking the length of two football fields in minutes. Due to escalating danger, firefighters had to withdraw, resuming their efforts only once conditions became favorable. According to Utah News Dispatch, the Bureau of Indian Affairs Complex and Southwest Area Incident Management Team 2 have assumed control of the operational response from the Navajo Nation's original incident command team in managing the crisis.
Throughout the northeast and east sections, crews are maintaining their position to ensure the established firelines hold, while structure protection groups are working on securing homes with the intention of permitting residents to return. The southwest portion of the fire is now being contained by firefighters making strategic use of roads and natural breaks. Support through aerial resources, including airtankers, continues to aid the ground operations.
Community response has been swift with the Phoenix Indian Center's donation efforts, revealing the determination of a community united against the hardships of natural calamity. Donations are collected at 4041 N. Central Ave., Phoenix, with individuals being directed to the north parking lot near Native Health. Responders are set up to receive donations from 8 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., as per guidance from the Phoenix Indian Center. For additional support, individuals can contact the Phoenix Indian Center at 602-264-6768 or via email to Elaine Wanatee-Diego at [email protected].
Amidst the current disaster, several other donation drives have arisen. Navajo woman Janell Brown and her daughter, Rayleigh Billy, have initiated a drive in their community, while organizations such as Native Health Phoenix are coordinating their own aid efforts. Donations are being accepted at multiple locations with plans to begin distribution directly to the impacted zones. As families navigate the devastation left in the wake of the wildfire, avenues for aid, solace, and recovery unfold, marking the unyielding spirit of a people in the mercies of hope and action. "We send our gratitude to those that are fighting the fire and those working behind the scenes to assist the community," declared the Native Health Phoenix team, extending their thoughts and prayers to Oak Ridge Fire victims, as reported by Utah News Dispatch.
