Donations to the Community Emergency Relief Fund have added up to more than $145,000 since the 416 Fire began burning.
CERF, managed by the Community Foundation Serving Southwest Colorado, has a goal to raise $500,000 for people who have been impacted by the fire.
Alpine Bank raised $40,000 at the Concert at the Park on June 14, and Tito’s Vodka will match $10,000 in donations from the Denver metro area, according to a news release from the foundation.
Also, Fastsigns of Durango donated to CERF $20 of every $25 paid for a 2-foot by 4-foot sign thanking firefighters.
Laurie Sigillito, owner of Fastsigns, said the business raised $1,600 for the fund, and Alpine Bank also matched the first $1,000. Fastsigns has been hanging the signs several times daily on the fence in front of Durango High School.
Applications are being accepted for people who need assistance.
The first round of assistance will be given June 29. Full-time, hourly workers who were laid off or evacuated will be given priority.
The Southwest Colorado Disaster Assistance, made up of various community groups, is concentrating on raising money for CERF.
Ska Brewing Co. has organized Save the San Juans Saturday, which will raise money for CERF.
On Saturday, $1 from every pint sold at Ska Brewing Co. will be donated to the fund. More than 25 breweries, restaurants and bars from across the state will participate.
herald@durangoherald.com
