Many spared from the worst of the wildfires are left wondering what can be done to help the victims. There are numerous aid organizations, churches, and community centers that are accepting both monetary and material donations. Here are a few places:
Bastrop County is accepting monetary and material donations. Checks can be sent to Bastrop Christian Ministerial Alliance, P.O. Box 856, Bastrop, TX 78602. Items can be dropped off at the Rundell Business Park in Bastrop, 704 Highway 71 West from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. They are requesting the following items: ice chests, depends, diapers, toiletries, pillows, towels, blankets, backpacks, and school supplies. If you want any additional information you can call 512-332-8807.
Boy Scouts units in Central Texas will be collecting donated items at eight different locations. In addition to the places listed on the website, you can also go to the Frank Fickett Scout Training and Service Center at 12500 North IH 35 (I-35 and Parmer Lane) on Monday-Friday from 9 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. or on Saturday from 10 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.
Smithville ISDwill be accepting donations in the form of Brookshire Brothers, HEB, or Walmart giftcards. You can drop them off at the Central Office or wait until school begins next Monday to drop them off at a campus office.
The University of Texas at Austin has announced that employees affected by the wildfires can apply for paid emergency leave. Those wishing to donate to the university's Staff Emergency Service Fund can do so online or by mailing a check designated to "University of Texas at Austin SEF" to:
University of Texas Foundation
PO Box 250
Austin, Texas 78767-0250
The Leander ISD PTA Clothes Closet will have extended hours throughout the week to help victims of the wildfires. They offer children’s clothing to local families. Their hours and location can be found on theLeander ISD website.
The Red Cross of Central Texas is accepting food and clothing donations at a variety of locations. Check out their website for addresses and times to drop off the goods.
The Austin Disaster Relief Network is accepting monetary donations for the wildfires in Bastrop and Leander. Those wishing to donate can mail checks to Austin Disaster Relief Network (ADRN), P.O. Box 3817, Cedar Park, TX 78630
You can also donate online via theirwebsite. They are also accepting material donations for victims of the Bastrop fire. They are requesting the following items:
- Diapers
- Baby Food
- Adult Food (non-perishable)
- Trash Cans
- Heavy Duty Trash Bags
- Underwear, Kennels for Dogs
- Socks
- Clorox Wipes
- Gifts for Kids
- Work Gloves
- Gatorade
- Water
A list of drop off locations is provided on theirwebsite.
The Capital Area Food Bank is also accepting food and monetary donations. More details can be found on their website.
The Catholic Charities of Austin is accepting cash donations on their website. They have also released lists of supplies people can give.
Medical Supplies:
• BP Cuff
• Nebulizer
• Thermometer
• Glucometer
• Pen lights
• Tongue Depressors
• Ibuprofen
• Gauze Wrap
• ACE Bandages
• Neosporin Cream
• Bandages
• Medical face masks (particle filter)
Other Supplies:
• Sleeping Bags
• Blankets
• Pillows
• Towels
• Shampoo
• Body wash
• Toothpaste
• Paper Plates, Cups, Napkins, Plastic Utensils
• Deodorant Sprays for men and women
• Disposable Razors
• Shaving Cream
• Baby Wipes
• Size 4 Diapers
• Baby Shampoo
• Sanitizer
• Depends Undergarments
KVUEhas also compiled a list of places people can donate