Alliance, NE — United Way of Western Nebraska (UWWN) has announced that emergency assistance applications are now open for individuals and families affected by the recent devastating wildfires across western Nebraska. Communities throughout the region have experienced significant property loss, displacement, and critical hardships as fires continue to impact homes, livelihoods, and essential resources.
In response, UWWN has activated the Western Nebraska Fire Relief Fund, created to provide immediate and long‑term support for those experiencing fire‑related hardship. In the wake of the recent fires across Western Nebraska, we know many ranchers, farmers, and rural families are facing significant loss—of homes, land, livestock, equipment, and the way of life tied to generations of work. The impact of these fires goes beyond property and finances, and recovery can feel overwhelming. The fund is designed to help cover essential needs not covered by insurance or FEMA, ensuring that families receive timely relief as they rebuild and recover.
The fund supports a broad range of emergency needs including:
- Temporary housing
- Replacement of essential personal items
- Food, clothing, and basic supplies
- Legal assistance
- Mental health supports
- Resource navigation
- Unique needs of our rural, agricultural and ranching communities
- Direct support for community volunteer firefighters serving on the front lines
“As someone born and raised in the Sandhills who still calls the area home, recognizing the devastation of the fires firsthand, we are grateful to be here in the community assisting those impacted,” said Karen Benzel, Executive Director of United Way of Western Nebraska. “We recognize that there may be unique needs for those affected by the fires are a ready to provide immediate financial resources to meet those needs.”
United Way works closely with community partners, emergency responders, and local agencies to ensure aid is provided quickly and effectively. Assistance is distributed based on verified needs to avoid duplication of services and to maximize impact for Nebraska families.
How to Apply
Fire‑affected individuals in need of emergency support may visit:
👉 https://www.uwwn.org/relief
Community members wishing to support local fire relief efforts can:
- Donate online at www.uwwn.org/relief
- Drop off monetary donations at United Way offices in Alliance or Scottsbluff
- Donate via Venmo or PayPal (@UnitedWayofWesternNebraska)
Monetary donations remain the most effective way to meet the rapidly evolving needs in the aftermath of the fires. Every dollar donated goes directly toward fire‑related assistance, with no administrative fees deducted from the fund, and United Way of Western Nebraska is covering all credit card processing fees to ensure 100% of each contribution supports those impacted.
For more information, assistance, or questions regarding the application process, individuals are encouraged to visit www.uwwn.org/relief, dial 211 for assistance 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.