Eastern Washington Wildfires Resources & Guidance

Dear EWU community,

Our thoughts are with all affected by the wildfires that are decimating many neighborhoods in the greater Spokane community and throughout Eastern Washington, and we stand ready to support students, faculty, and staff who have been affected by the tragic events of recent days.

We understand the series of events are still developing, and we will monitor the situation closely, ready to provide any new details related to support for those affected by the fires and their aftermath. Please prioritize your health and safety during this time. Employees who are impacted by the wildfires should contact their supervisors when time allows to explore options, and supervisors are encouraged to exhibit grace and flexibility in these stressful times.

Already, EWU is coordinating with emergency agencies that are responding to the fires on potential resources that we can provide for first responders and emergency response units.

Also, EWU is hosting large supply trailers of American Red Cross supplies in support of the wildfires. Those trailers hold additional cots, blankets, hygiene kits, clean kits, shovels, rakes, gloves, masks, buckets and ash sifters. Such supplies are now being distributed in Spokane, Okanogan, and Stevens counties from the base at the Cheney campus.

In addition to assisting first responders and the broader community, we are taking inventory for highest needs and directing those most profoundly affected in our community to the following departments:

• Students who need resources should contact Student Accommodations and Support Services, and those enrolled in summer classes should contact their instructors directly for any necessary modifications.
• Faculty and staff impacted by the fires should contact their supervisors for assistance. Human Resources is also available to answer any questions. Of course, we know that such natural disasters can have a profound impact and take an emotional toll on those who aren’t directly affected as well. As a reminder, EWU offers an Employee Assistance Plan and other resources to help all come to terms with what’s happening to our greater community.
• Faculty members who have academic-related questions or concerns may contact the Provost’s Office.
• Broader community resources include the SREC Evacuation Map and the American Red Cross.  Anyone who has questions about community resources can contact Summer Warfield at Eastern Washington University Police.

We recognize this is a difficult time for all and remind everybody to have grace and exhibit kindness to each other in the coming days. We’ve navigated tragedy as one in the past, and we will persevere—together—again.