After the wildfire in Ordway burned 8,900 acres, destroying 24 homes, Crowley County officials are considering themselves lucky for the aid they have received.
“I am feeling pretty good about the amount of money raised for the victims of this fire,” said Crowley County Commissioner Matt Heimerich. “It’s a sign of the generosity in Colorado.”
Currently, $45,211 has been donated to assist the 50 Crowley County residents who lost their homes in the April 15 fire. Some of the funds also will go to those who suffered some property damage.
Earlier this week, the El Pomar Foundation Trustees agreed to grant $25,000 to the Crowley County Community Foundation. This amount, Heim erich said, will help to ensure those who have been displaced will have a roof over their heads and necessary supplies for survival.
“From El Pomar’s perspective, it’s just a small step,” said Terrance McWilliams, wildland fire director for the El Pomar Foundation. “The greater need is to help the community and those who lost everything rebuild their lives.”
Grants and private donations have given people options, regardless of their insurance coverage, Heimerich said.
The Colorado Division of Housing has agreed to make need-based housing vouchers available to displaced residents. The vouchers will pay up to 70 percent of rental expenses for those wishing to relocate in the county.
However, the county’s priority is to help displaced residents rebuild.
Heimerich said Crowley County soon will begin accepting applications from affected residents, and aid will be disbursed according to the level of need. Housing agencies also may offer loans from the U.S. Department of Agriculture to those who want to rebuild.
Anna Haislip: 303-954-1638 or ahaislip@denverpost.com
