Senator Merkley: Wildfire Damage Rapid Relief Program

It’s been almost eight months since last year’s unprecedented wildfires broke out over Labor Day weekend — claiming nine lives, leveling entire communities, and costing families their homes and livelihoods. While we’ve made a lot of progress in helping to rebuild and recover, much work remains to be done to help Oregonians affected by these wildfires, and the other destructive blazes that have hit our communities in recent few years, get back on their feet.

That’s why I’m happy to report that $6.1 million in funding is still available through the Oregon Housing and Community Services’ Wildfire Damage Rapid Relief Program, and Oregonians have until May 31st to apply for assistance of up to $6,500 per household.

You may be eligible for funding if you lost your home — a single family or multi-family house, manufactured or mobile home dwelling, or recreational vehicle that was your primary residence — or if your home sustained damage that made it uninhabitable unless repaired or replaced because of a wildfire since July 1, 2017. For more information about the program’s eligibility requirements, and to submit your application before the May 31st deadline, click here.

Every Oregonian — no matter where they live, how much money they make, or what they look like — deserves a roof over their heads and a chance to make a living, and that’s why we’ve got to step up and help when it comes to recovering from catastrophic wildfires. As we continue on with the important work of rebuilding and recovering, I’m going to keep doing everything I can to make sure that no Oregonian is left behind. I’ll be sure to keep you updated about other available resources along the way.

Senator Jeff Merkley