Spokane County and Innovia Foundation Fund Completion of 8 Homes for Wildfire Victims

Spokane County has secured $80,000 to aid in the recovery of families affected by the devastating wildfires in August 2023. This funding will help complete the construction of eight new homes, six in Elk and two in Medical Lake, through a partnership between the county’s Housing and Community Development Department and the Spokane Regional Long-Term Recovery Group. Administrator George Dahl identified a funding shortfall and proposed a matching grant of $40,000 from both the county and the Innovia Foundation. This collaborative effort underscores the community's commitment to supporting wildfire victims in their rebuilding process. Commissioners Kerns and French expressed their gratitude for the funding resolution, emphasizing the importance of providing stability for struggling families.

Shelly O’Quinn, CEO of the Innovia Foundation, remarked on the foundation's role in supporting local residents through fundraising efforts. The matching grant allows for a doubled impact of donations to the Wildfire Response Fund, ensuring that the homes for survivors are completed. This initiative marks a crucial step forward in Spokane County's ongoing recovery efforts, showcasing community resilience and collaboration.