United Way of Southern Colorado centralizes donations for victims of ‘Aspen Acres’ fire

PUEBLO, Colo. (KRDO) -- The United Way of Southern Colorado is working to streamline the donation process for those impacted by the 'Aspen Acres' fire.

From food and water to clothing and hygiene products, evacuees can come to the Donation and Distribution Center on Taos Road to get anything they need.

“They can grab a shopping cart, walk around and get all the things they may be needing right now at no cost,” President and CEO of United Way of Southern Colorado Shanna Farmer said.

This is also where United Way is asking people to drop off their physical donations. As of early today, they were no longer in need of clothing, food items or water bottles.

Even over the Fourth of July weekend, people have taken the time to volunteer and show their support. 

“Pueblo show up for Pueblo, but other communities are also showing up for Pueblo," Farmer said. "We’ve had people driving in on a six-hour round trip just to come donate items because this is how they wanted to spend their holiday.”

There have been outside groups attempting to organize funds for the 'Aspen Acres' fire, but the United Way is offering a way to keep donations local and avoid donation scams.

“Everybody wants to help, and that is so beautiful. The more the merrier to help, but it does really help to streamline effort," Farmer said.

These scams can pop up while people are vulnerable after tragedies and natural disasters. 

"We’re happy to manage the fund, and in a very clear and transparent way, people know that it is a safe place to be giving money and items," Farmer said.

KRDO13 is partnering with the United Way of Southern Colorado for an all-day telethon on Thursday, July 9, to raise money for victims of the 'Aspen Acres' fire in Pueblo and Custer counties, beginning at 5 a.m.

Up-to-date information on what donations are needed can be found on United Way of Southern Colorado's Facebook page.

Volunteer opportunities can be signed up for on United Way of Southern Colorado's website.

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