Bend, OR – President Joe Biden has approved federal disaster assistance to aid Oregon’s recovery from the devastating wildfires that raged through the state this summer. The wildfires, which occurred between July 10 and August 23, 2024, caused extensive damage across several counties, leaving communities in need of substantial support.
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has allocated Public Assistance funding for Oregon, providing crucial financial resources to state, tribal, and local governments, as well as certain nonprofit organizations. The funding will assist with emergency response costs and the repair or replacement of public infrastructure severely affected by the fires in Gilliam, Grant, Umatilla, Wasco, and Wheeler counties.
Yolanda J. Jackson, appointed as the Federal Coordinating Officer, will oversee the coordination of the federal recovery efforts in the impacted regions. Jackson’s role will be pivotal in ensuring that recovery resources are distributed efficiently to help rebuild affected areas and mitigate further damage.
This disaster declaration marks an important milestone in Oregon’s recovery process, as the state works to rebound from one of its most destructive wildfire seasons in recent history. With the federal aid now in place, local and state authorities can begin to address the long-term rebuilding efforts necessary to restore the communities impacted by the fires.
As Oregon continues to deal with the aftermath of the fires, federal, state, and local officials are committed to working together to ensure that recovery proceeds as swiftly and smoothly as possible.
