Cascade Relief – Wildfire Relief Fund Recipient

Through the Oregon Business Wildfire Relief Fund, the Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce was able to receive a second round of some funds to distribute amongst varying community needs of those communities impacted by the fires. After seeing the incredible clean up work that the Cascade Relief Team was doing in Blue River, after the Holiday Farm Fire, we knew instantly that granting these funds to this organization would be of great use. Marc Brooks, President of Cascade Relief Team, has been leading the efforts in not only Blue River but other communities across the State impacted by the fires this past year. He has had his feet on the ground, bringing together volunteers, businesses, and the like to make some incredible efforts of clean up in the Blue River community.

The Chamber is honored that we were able to help in a small way, and continues to be amazed with the magic that happens with businesses and community members come together to help those in need.

Check out their Blue River Cleanup Efforts through the link below:

A Statement from Marc Brooks upon receiving the fund:

“As you know we are the only nonprofit that is doing organized volunteer cleanups, this grant money does so much for the community. Financial support goes toward the following in Blue River. Heavey Equipment rentals (average $10,000 per month)  Fuel (Averaging $3000 per month) Fire Debris and Asbesto’s Disposal (Average of $7,0000 per month).  Our Volunteer cleanup project will ultimately get people moving back on their lots. By doing this we are restoring dignity and freedom. Instead of getting a sack meal, or a meal in a box at a hotel, a fire survivor can cook their own meal, they can wake up and see their neighbors again, they are not woken up by hotel fire alarms going off at 3 am. I honestly was shocked to see how happy survivors are when they are back on their properties. I thought they would be overcome with sadness that they are living in an RV instead of their home, but many are just so happy to be back home. waiting on their permanent home. The volunteer cleanup efforts are saving communities and providing a strange beauty in the midst of devastation.  We could not do this without the amazing help from people and organizations like the Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce.“