Media contact: Keith Paul
Regional Communications Director
keith.paul@redcross.org | 702-400-7680

WHAT: Washoe County Community Resource Center for residents affected by recent wildfires
WHERE: North Valleys Community Center, 8085 Silver Lake Rd., Reno, NV 89506
WHEN: Friday, Aug. 28-Monday, Aug. 31: 9 a.m.-6 p.m. and Tuesday, Sept. 1-Friday, Sept. 4: 4-8 p.m.
WHY: To connect residents with disaster assistance, recovery services and other resources in one location

RENO, Nev. (Aug. 28, 2026) — The American Red Cross of Northern Nevada will provide disaster assistance, recovery information and cleanup supplies at a Washoe County Community Resource Center opening today at the North Valleys Community Center for residents affected by the Hawk Fire and other recent wildfires.

Washoe County is opening the center to bring government agencies, nonprofit organizations and community partners together in one location. Residents can get answers to recovery questions and find help with insurance, permitting, food, legal services, animal support and other resources.

Red Cross disaster workers will be available at the center to provide disaster assistance, wildfire cleanup kits and recovery information. They can also help eligible families whose homes were destroyed or sustained major damage apply for Red Cross financial assistance.

“Recovering from a wildfire can be overwhelming, especially when you’re trying to figure out where to turn for help,” said Bridget Posson, Executive Director of the American Red Cross of Northern Nevada. “Having so many organizations in one place makes it easier for families to get answers and get the help they need.”

Recovery Services Available
Organizations and services expected to be available at the Community Resource Center include:

• American Red Cross of Northern Nevada: Disaster assistance, wildfire cleanup kits, recovery information and financial assistance for eligible families.
• Washoe County Community Services Department and City of Reno: Permitting and inspection information.
• Washoe County Assessor’s Office: Property tax information.
• Washoe County Regional Animal Services: Animal support information and services.
• Northern Nevada Public Health: Document restoration and environmental health information.
• Northern Nevada Legal Aid: Legal assistance.
• Nevada Division of Insurance: Insurance information and assistance.
• VA Sierra Nevada Health Care: Support and resources for veterans.
• NV Energy: Gas and electric service information.
• Food Bank of Northern Nevada: Food assistance.
• SNAP: Information about food assistance benefits.
• Washoe County Human Services Agency: Mental health and childcare resources.
• Verizon: Free Wi-Fi, device charging, public-access Chromebooks and printing.
• All Hands and Hearts: Cash vouchers for residents affected by the wildfires.
• Project Bear Hugs: Stuffed animals and hygiene kits.
• Sprouts: Food assistance.

Additional organizations and resources may be available at the center. Services may vary based on eligibility and availability.

Red Cross Wildfire Recovery Assistance
Red Cross disaster workers will be available at the Community Resource Center to meet with residents affected by the recent wildfires and help determine what Red Cross assistance may be available.

Families whose primary residences were destroyed or sustained substantial damage from the recent wildfires may be eligible for Red Cross financial assistance. Red Cross disaster workers can help eligible families apply and provide information about other available resources.

Wildfire cleanup kits will also be available for residents returning to properties affected by smoke, ash and debris.

Residents affected by the recent fires are encouraged to visit the Community Resource Center even if they have already received assistance. Recovery needs can change over time, and other organizations at the center may have additional services and resources available.

Support for Disaster Relief Efforts
Community support helps the Red Cross provide shelter, food and other critical assistance to people affected by disasters. To support Red Cross Disaster Relief, visit redcross.org/HELP, call 1-800-RED CROSS or text REDCROSS to 90999.

About the American Red Cross
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members, and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or follow us on social media.