Apache County, Arizona — Communities across eastern Arizona are stepping up to support residents impacted by the devastating Greer Fire, which has scorched more than 12,000 acres of forest land in Apache County. Local organizations, relief groups, federal agencies, and even high school students have joined forces to provide critical support for those displaced or affected by the fast-moving wildfire.

Fire Impact and Evacuation Efforts

The Greer Fire, fueled by dry weather and high winds, quickly spread through parts of the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests, forcing evacuations and threatening homes and wildlife habitats. Fire officials have worked around the clock to contain the blaze, while families have scrambled to find safety, shelter, and basic necessities.

To aid in suppression efforts, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) approved a Fire Management Assistance Grant (FMAG) for Arizona. This grant allows for federal funding to cover up to 75% of eligible firefighting costs, including field camps, equipment, and mobilization expenses.

“These grants are vital to supporting our first responders and ensuring affected communities can respond effectively,” said a FEMA spokesperson.

Local Relief and Donation Drives

On the ground, organizations like White Mountains Helping Hands have launched donation drives to gather essentials for evacuees. These include hygiene items, non-perishable food, baby supplies, and other necessities.

In a heartfelt message to the community, White Mountains Helping Hands wrote on their Facebook page,

“From the bottom of our hearts, thank you to every business, volunteer, and donor who has stepped up to help the people of Greer in this time of need.”

Greer Relief, a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping local families in crisis, is also collecting financial donations and distributing aid to those affected. Donations can be made online via greerrelief.org.

“The generosity we’ve seen is overwhelming,” said a representative from Greer Relief. “Families who’ve lost everything are finding hope in the kindness of strangers.”

Inspiring Acts of Kindness

One particularly moving act of community solidarity came from the Round Valley Elks high school football team, whose members took time away from training to help a teammate clear dry brush and debris around his home, creating a defensible space to prevent fire damage.

“It’s impressive and humbling,” said a local firefighter. “These young people are learning the value of community and action.”

Their efforts were highlighted by ABC15 Arizona, demonstrating how even small groups can make a big difference in disaster preparedness.

How You Can Help

As the Greer Fire continues to burn, donations and support remain essential. Here are a few verified ways the public can contribute:

🔹 Greer Relief

• Accepting monetary donations to support displaced families
• Website: greerrelief.org

🔹 White Mountains Helping Hands

• Collecting essential items such as hygiene supplies, diapers, and food
• Facebook: facebook.com/wmhelpinghands

🔹 FEMA Assistance

• Providing funding and disaster updates through FMAG and other emergency programs
• Visit: fema.gov

Continued Challenges and Recovery

While containment efforts are ongoing, recovery will take time. Fire crews remain stationed in key zones, and evacuation warnings are still in effect in some areas. The Arizona Department of Forestry and Fire Management continues to update the public on fire progression and containment metrics at dffm.az.gov.

In the meantime, officials are urging people to avoid unnecessary travel to the region and to follow all safety guidance provided by local emergency management offices.

Final Thoughts

The Greer Fire has highlighted both the destructive power of wildfires and the resilience of Arizona’s communities. From teenagers creating fire breaks to grassroots organizations collecting diapers, the response reflects a deep-rooted spirit of unity.

Though the flames have yet to be fully extinguished, the outpouring of support suggests that Greer and its surrounding areas will recover—one act of kindness at a time..

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