MISSOULA — Fires continue to rip through the northwest and one group of Montanans is helping out by donating vital supplies to people in Oregon.
Montana Cares, with the help of some local businesses, have put together two trailers and a moving truck full of supplies essential to those who have lost so much in the wildfires.
"Everyone is struggling down there," fire relief organizer Kerry Duff said. "The idea came to me when I was talking to my mom and mother and law and I said, 'I have to do something.'"
Currently, the organization is still looking for a variety of items to bring to Medford, Oregon on Sunday, including medicines, toiletries, linens, baby supplies.
"We are trying to help them with everything. Camping gear is a big need right now,' Duff added.
It’s taken some time and effort to put everything together but Duff says it’s all worth it.
"There are 30 or more casualties that we know of right now. People are literally sifting through the rubble and trying to find their loved ones. Our week-long of 14 hour days and a week of driving and being there is nothing compared to what these people are going to be dealing with and the impact of this for the rest of their lives."
Duff said they are in desperate need of boxes to pack all the items up and could also use cash or gift card donations. Cash will go towards purchasing items and gas which Duff estimates will be around 1,000 dollars.
She also said that Twite Realty has stepped up and donated 500 dollars to assist that cost.
If you can donate or volunteer you can call Duff at 406-207-5687 and you can drop off all items at Twite Realty on 410 Expressway.
You can find the Facebook page by clicking here.
LIST OF NEEDED ITEMS:
Medicines: Advil, Tylenol, Benadryl, Tums, vitamins
Luggage: suitcases, backpacks and duffle bags
Small kitchen items: silverware, spatulas, knives, measuring cups, measuring spoons, potholders, pizza cutter, mixing bowls, dishes, pots, pans, cups, mugs
Baby: diapers, formula, wipes bottles
General: Batteries, ALL CAMPING SUPPLIES, water, rolls of quarters
Paper products: Toilet paper, paper towels, paper plates, paper bowls, plastic ware
Toiletries: finger nail clippers, tweezers, q-tips, cotton balls, hairbands, hairbrush, band-aids, vaseline, Neosporin, pads, tampons, depeneds, deodorant, shampoo, razers, conditioner, toothbrushes, toothpaste, mouth wash, floss, wipes, first aid
Cleaning supplies: broom, mop dustpan, sponges, dishcloths
Linens: sheets, blankets, pillows, cases, mattress covers, towels
