Alliance, NE — In response to the devastating wildfires that began in early March, United Way of Western Nebraska (UWWN) launched the Western Nebraska Fire Relief Fund to support families and communities affected across the region. To date, more than $260,000 has been raised, enabling swift, direct financial assistance for those impacted by recent fires, including the South Fork Fire.
Thanks to the generosity of donors and strong community support, UWWN is currently providing direct emergency financial assistance, with funds reaching qualifying applicants in as little as 48 hours once proper documentation is verified. This rapid response is helping families address urgent needs as they navigate displacement, loss of property, and disruption to livelihoods.
The Western Nebraska Fire Relief Fund was established to provide immediate and long‑term support for those impacted, including ranchers, and rural families experiencing loss of homes, land, livestock, equipment, and essential resources. Assistance focuses on needs not covered by insurance or FEMA, ensuring critical gaps are addressed during recovery.
“The amount raised to support those affected by the fires in Western Nebraska speaks to the compassion and generosity of our community both locally, across the state and throughout the nation,” said Karen Benzel, Executive Director of United Way of Western Nebraska. “Just as importantly, these funds are allowing us to respond quickly to those impacted. We can get financial assistance to those affected quickly to help them work towards recovery and rebuilding.”
Current and Future Relief Efforts
- Phase 1 Relief (Ongoing): Direct financial assistance to individuals and families directly impacted by the fires, with rapid turnaround times for verified applications.
- Phase 2 Relief (Upcoming): Long‑term recovery support including assistance for nonprofit organizations that responded during the fires, local fire departments, and recovery needs not met through initial relief efforts.
United Way of Western Nebraska continues to work closely with community partners, emergency responders, and local agencies to ensure funds are distributed efficiently, responsibly, and without duplication of services.
How to Access or Support Relief
Fire‑impacted residents can apply for assistance at: https://www.uwwn.org/relief
Those wishing to support ongoing relief and recovery efforts may:
- Donate online at www.uwwn.org/relief
- Drop off monetary donations at United Way offices in Alliance or Scottsbluff
- Give via Venmo or PayPal: @UnitedWayofWesternNebraska
100% of donated funds go directly to fire‑related assistance. No administrative fees are deducted from the fund, and UWWN is covering all credit card processing fees.
For more information, visit www.uwwn.org/relief, dial 211, or contact United Way of Western Nebraska directly.
United Way of Western Nebraska is a nonprofit organization that unites people and resources to build a stronger, healthier and more compassionate community. Supporting 22 local nonprofit agencies and providing direct community impact services in the areas of youth opportunity, healthy community, community resiliency and financial security and reinvesting in Western Nebraska since their inception in 1945. For more information, visit www.uwwn.org.