Wells Fargo & Company has donated $22,500 for relief efforts to support those impacted by wildfires throughout Montana. The American Red Cross of Montana receives $10,000, with $2,500 going to the Garfield County Fire Foundation and an additional $10,000 going to the Montana Community Foundation.

"Wells Fargo is a longtime partner of the American Red Cross, and we are so grateful for its support of our Montana wildfire relief operations,” said Diane Wright, executive director of the American Red Cross of Montana. “This very generous gift comes at a critical time for our chapter, and we simply couldn’t do this work without donors like Wells Fargo."

The American Red Cross of Montana has opened 18 wildfire shelters since July, including six during the Labor Day weekend. Red Cross has 15 trailers prepositioned across Montana that have the equipment needed to shelter 50 people each, giving evacuees a safe place to stay, food, emotional support and other services. 

More than 1 million acres have burned in Montana this summer. July alone saw more acreage burned in our state than entire Montana seasons.

“Wells Fargo is committed to our communities, and this means helping our team members, friends and neighbors affected by these wildfires," said Joy Ott, Montana region bank president for Wells Fargo. "Our hearts and help go out to those who have lost and those still in the path of the blazes. We are a part of the communities affected, and we greatly appreciate everything the firefighters, first-responders, volunteers and Red Cross are doing to help protect and support everyone impacted.” 

Several Wells Fargo team members have been called to duty, serving with the National Guard to help provide relief. Customers impacted by the wildfires may discuss their financial options by contacting Wells Fargo 24 hours a day, seven days a week at 1-800-TO-WELLS (1-800-869-3557). Customers also can visit their nearest Wells Fargo branch.