Governor Polis, Philanthropic Community Discuss Efforts in Support of Colorado Families & Individuals Impacted by the Devastating Marshall Fire
DENVER - Today, Governor Polis joined Community Foundation Boulder County CEO Tatiana Hernandez, Ball Corporation CEO John Hayes and Brian Cain, Chief Sustainability Officer of Civitas to discuss philanthropic efforts in support of Colorado families and individuals impacted by the devastating Marshall Fire.
“The darkest times bring out some of the best in Coloradans and now is no different. Local, state and federal resources were quickly mobilized to support Marshall Fire survivors and we are thankful to the philanthropic community and Coloradans quickly rallied to raise millions of dollars. Individuals, businesses, organizations came together to donate what they could and ensure that those who have suffered from this disaster can get the help they deserve,” said Gov. Polis. “Our administration, the philanthropic community and Coloradans are ready to walk the road to recovery together.”
Resources are available at the Disaster Assistance Center (DAC), which is open from 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., seven days a week and is located at the Boulder County Southeast Hub at 1755 South Public Road in Lafayette, CO.
“Community Foundation Boulder County wants to thank the over 57,000 individuals, foundations and companies who have collectively donated nearly $19.5 million to support our friends and neighbors. This unbelievable generosity allowed us to quickly distribute approximately $3.8 million to nearly 1,400 individuals and families. We know money cannot replace all that was lost. We do hope however, that this support gives people a small sense of stability as they navigate what comes next,” said Tatiana Hernandez, CEO of Community Foundation Boulder County who helped lead today’s event.
Community Foundation Boulder County has served as a responsible, trustworthy hub where Coloradans can donate at coloradogives.org/
Survivors can also connect with FEMA and the Small Business Administration at the DAC. If you aren’t able to make it to the DAC, you can apply for FEMA assistance through DisasterAssistance.gov or by calling 1-800-621-3362. And to apply for SBA assistance, visit www.SBA.gov/disaster call 800-659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.
Impacted business owners and homeowners can apply for low-interest loans through the Small Business Administration’s Disaster Assistance program at sba.gov/funding-programs/
“It’s been heartening to witness Colorado coming together to support those impacted by the Marshall wildfires. Thank you to our amazing Colorado first responders, philanthropic partners, and Governor Polis for their leadership during these trying times,” said John A. Hayes, chairman and CEO of Ball who joined today’s event. “It is critical that we provide the immediate resources required by those affected, and as our community begins to repair and rebuild, the needs will shift and we must continue to evolve our efforts accordingly. Support from the business community will continue to be essential, and Ball is committed to staying the course. It is in these times we are reminded that good neighbors make good neighborhoods, and we are proud to have so many good neighbors here in Colorado.”
Civitas and Ball Corp each donated $1 million to the Boulder County Wildfire Fund.
“As community members, neighbors and Coloradans, we are saddened by the devastation these wildfires have caused, and we must do what we can to help these impacted communities,” said Civitas CEO Eric Greager. “Our hearts go out to those who were displaced or otherwise affected by these tragic events, and we thank the Community Foundation Boulder County for its work in responding to this unprecedented disaster.”
Brian Cain, Chief Sustainability Officer of Civitas spoke at today’s event.
Last week Gov. Polis joined President Biden, members of Colorado’s federal delegation, Sheriff Joe Pelle and others to tour the devastation and speak with families directly.
For more information on federal disaster assistance and access to application materials, visit disasterassistance.gov