Community Foundation of Northern Nevada Announces: 2026 Northern Nevada Wildfire Relief Fund

(August 12, 2026 - RENO, Nev.) — As wildfires continue to affect communities across Northern Nevada, the Community Foundation of Northern Nevada (CFNN) is working closely with nonprofit organizations, governmental agencies, and other community partners to coordinate resources and respond to the evolving needs of residents impacted by the fires.

To help meet longer-term needs, the Community Foundation is accepting donations to its 2026 Northern Nevada Wildfire Relief Fund. Contributions to the fund will support local organizations providing wildfire relief and recovery assistance and may help displaced individuals and families, animals, first responders, and other emerging community needs identified in coordination with CFNN's community partners.

"During a disaster, needs can change quickly, and some of the most significant challenges emerge after the immediate crisis has passed," said Eaton Dunkelberger, President and CEO of the Community Foundation of Northern Nevada. "The 2026 Northern Nevada Wildfire Relief Fund gives our community a way to respond not only to urgent needs today, but also to help individuals and families facing difficult circumstances throughout the recovery process. By working closely with trusted nonprofit and public-sector partners, we can direct resources where they can make the greatest difference."

As part of a coordinated regional response, the Community Foundation of Northern Nevada is partnering with Catholic Charities of Northern Nevada and United Way of Northern Nevada and the Sierra to help meet the needs of those affected by the Bug and Stallion wildfires. Catholic Charities will lead long-term recovery case management for impacted residents identified and referred through the American Red Cross. United Way will refer donors to CFNN.

For those with immediate needs, including emergency shelter, food, or other essential assistance, please contact the American Red Cross or an existing emergency shelter serving impacted residents.

This approach is designed to provide flexibility as the full impact of the fires becomes clearer. Recovery assistance may address unmet and longer-term needs while also helping individuals and families facing extraordinary circumstances during recovery, including needs that are not covered by homeowners or renters’ insurance or other available resources.

"Our goal is to build a response that recognizes that recovery doesn't end when the fire is contained," Dunkelberger said. "For some families, the most difficult challenges may come weeks or even months later. This partnership allows us to combine philanthropy, experienced case management, and strong community relationships to help Northern Nevadans navigate that recovery."

While the desire to donate food, clothing, and other supplies is greatly appreciated, after the immediate response, the most effective way to support our neighbors’ long-term recovery after a disaster is often through a financial contribution. Monetary donations give relief organizations the flexibility to respond quickly to changing needs, purchase exactly what is needed, and avoid the logistical challenges of collecting, storing, and distributing donated goods.

“Recovering from a wildfire can be a long and difficult process, and every family’s circumstances are different,” said Marie Baxter, CEO of Catholic Charities of Northern Nevada. “Our role is to walk alongside those impacted as they begin to rebuild, helping them navigate available resources and identify unmet needs that may not be covered by insurance or other assistance. Through this partnership, we can help ensure our neighbors have support not only in the days immediately following a disaster, but throughout the longer road to recovery.”

Community members wishing to support wildfire relief and recovery efforts are encouraged to make a gift to the 2026 Northern Nevada Wildfire Relief Fund at the Community Foundation of Northern Nevada.

Donations may be made:

• By check, payable to Community Foundation of Northern Nevada, with 2026 Northern Nevada Wildfire Relief Fund noted in the memo line. Checks may be mailed to: Community Foundation of Northern Nevada, 50 Washington Street, Suite 300, Reno, NV 89503.
• By credit card through the Community Foundation of Northern Nevada website at nevadafund.org.

Funds will be deployed based on identified community needs and in coordination with organizations directly involved in relief and recovery efforts. This flexible approach allows the Community Foundation and its partners to respond as circumstances evolve and to help address gaps that may not be met through insurance, governmental assistance, or other disaster-relief resources.

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About the Community Foundation of Northern Nevada

Established in 1998 as a Nevada nonprofit 501(c) 3 Corporation, the Community Foundation of Northern Nevada has distributed more than $200 million in grants and scholarships from over 300 charitable funds to strengthen our Nevada home. The Community Foundation assets consist of invested donor-advised funds, scholarships, designated and legacy funds, and the Northern Nevada Endowment. The Community Foundation serves as a community leader, a permanent charitable resource, and a philanthropic advisor in charitable giving.