Officials urge use of official resources; Innovia and city recovery funds launched

Mayor Brown and county officials encouraged residents and potential donors to use official channels for contributions and described resources available to evacuees and victims.

"Our partners at the Innovia Foundation been working with the county and the city on starting a Spokane complex wildfire response fund," the mayor said, and he noted that the city holds a wildfire recovery subfund within its "home starts here" fund where donations can be directed. County Commissioner Chris Jordan said the fairgrounds are being prepared to host responders and some evacuees, including RV space and livestock accommodations.

County Commissioner Josh Kearns warned that recovery periods can attract scammers and dishonest contractors and urged survivors to research contractors before exchanging money. Commissioner Kearns also said a Spokane Regional long-term recovery group, formed after a previous regional fire, will help coordinate long-term assistance when recovery moves to that phase.

Officials provided resource contacts, including the Spokane County Veterans Service Center phone number (509-477-3690) and recommended checking official county and city websites for verified donation links and volunteer information.