This fundraiser is for my Aunt, Linda Chmiel, who is a resident of the Blue River/Vida area of Oregon and owner/operator of Indigo Cafe. She recently lost her home, business, and all her possessions in the Holiday Farm Fire. She and her dog Gracie were fortunate enough to escape with their lives.

Late on Labor Day evening, the McKenzie River Valley in Lane County, Oregon was experiencing extremely high winds due to a rare weather occurrence. These winds caused many trees and debris to fall, as well as power lines, which is believed to be what sparked the Holiday Farm Fire. The fire swept down the valley so quickly, propelled by high winds, that evacuations were rushed in these rural areas. With little/no phone service, power knocked out, and limited exit routes (many of which were obstructed by fallen trees, other debris, or fire), many people and animals were unable to evacuate and did not make it out. Per‪ @LaneCountyGov‬, loss of life is anticipated. One resident described the scene: “...We went immediately from no warning to level 3, and I am pretty sure we would have perished if we were just a few minutes later...total loss.”   There was just not enough warning and not enough time. These are not just a few houses lost, these are entire communities lost. Animals, pets, people. Multiple towns. Every building, gone.

This fire has wiped the McKenzie River valley off the map and continues to rage towards the west. As of Wednesday 9/9, it has burned over 100,000 acres and counting. There are less than 200 firefighters available to fight the Holiday Farm Fire. A fraction of the 1000+ that are needed. The resources are just so low with all the other fires currently burning; we hope that the weather shifts in our favor and rain comes next week as expected.

As thankful as we are that my Aunt Linda and Gracie are alive, in the coming days and weeks we must face the reality of her home, business, and livelihood being gone. We are asking for donations to help rebuild what was lost. Literally every dollar counts, and if you cannot spare one please just take a moment to share the link with friends and family. We are so grateful for all of you. We pray for the missing, the dead, the displaced, our first responders, and everyone involved. Thank you.

-Sophia Harding