SPOKANE — While many of its own members were forced to evacuate and lost their homes in recent wildfires, VFW Post 51 has transformed into a community lifeline, collecting and distributing essential supplies to those affected by the disaster.
The post’s rooms are now stacked with donated clothes, non-perishable foods, and other necessities to help wildfire survivors begin rebuilding their lives. What started as an immediate response has evolved into an ongoing relief effort as more residents return to their homes and discover what they’ve lost.
“We have members here that were affected by the fire, myself included. That very first night, this is where I came. That’s kind of how this whole idea came about,” said Mikal Browell, VFW 51 Junior Vice Commander.
The relief operation reflects a commitment to ensuring no one in the community falls through the cracks. Eva Clark, VFW 51 Auxiliary President, emphasized the post’s dedication to serving everyone affected, not just veterans.
“No one is left behind. We are here for you. Basically, we got your six, and we have that also for the community. Not just our veterans, but for everyone,” Clark said.
What sets VFW Post 51’s effort apart is its grassroots approach. Rather than partnering with large national organizations, the post is sourcing donations directly from local residents and distributing them directly to other locals in need. This direct connection between donors and recipients has created a powerful sense of community solidarity.
Jessie Anderson, VFW Canteen Manager, described the emotional impact of watching neighbors support one another during a crisis.
“It really warms my heart that people are really, truly giving their all, their time, their effort, their stuff. Some people are getting new stuff and bringing it, others are bringing stuff they no longer use, and it just feels amazing knowing that our community has come together to do that,” Anderson said.
As residents return to their homes, the VFW is adapting its relief efforts to meet evolving needs. Initially, the focus was on basic necessities like food and clothing. But as people assess the full scope of their losses, they’re discovering gaps in everyday items they took for granted.
“It’s kind of just a constantly growing list. Everyone understands their first basic needs, like food and having something to wear, but as things go on, people start to remember, like ‘Oh, I haven’t been able to brush my teeth, or I want to brush my hair or shave.’ We want to be here to provide any of that for them,” Browell said.
The VFW Post 51 is open daily from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. for anyone needing supplies or wishing to donate items to support wildfire survivors.
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