After a devastating 2020 wildfire season that brought the direct impacts of climate change to many communities in Oregon, 2021 is off to an ominous start. Last year, SEIU 503 members worked to keep each other safe and to take care of people who were affected by wildfires. We reached agreements with employers, communicated timely information to members, and provided more than $130,000 in assistance to members who were impacted by wildfires.
This year, our Climate Justice Committee is leading an effort to proactively provide information to SEIU 503 members so you know how to receive critical updates on wildfires and can take the necessary steps to keep you, your family, and your property safe. We don’t want to lose any more of our union family to wildfires.
Real-Time Information & Resources
For information on current fire conditions, evacuation orders and more, visit Oregon Wildfire Resources.
Anyone affected by last year’s wildfires in Clackamas, Douglas, Jackson, Klamath, Lane, Lincoln, Linn, and Marion counties should apply for Federal Assistance at https://www.fema.gov/disaster/4562.
Free legal consultation from the Oregon Association of Trial Lawyers is available here.
SEIU 503 Member Wildfire & Evacuation Assistance Fund
This fund provides cash assistance for SEIU 503 members impacted by wildfires and evacuation. In times of need, we’re stronger if we pull together and lift each other up. In 2017 we set up this fund to help members impacted by wildfires. In 2020, the need was greater than ever. 2021 could be worse, so please donate if you can.
Click here to donate to the SEIU 503 Wildfire & Evacuation Assistance Fund
Wildfire Preparedness
5 steps you can take right now to be ready for Oregon wildfire season
How to Prepare for this Year’s Fire Season
Oregon Physicians for Social Responsibility – Our Health in Wildfire Season
- Our Health in Wildfire Season webinar recording (English language version)
- Nuestra salud en la temporada de incendios (Spanish language version)
Multnomah County Wildfire Preparedness Tips
Project Wildfire Evacuation Resources
InciWeb – Wildfire Incident Information System
Community Resource Guide
With information on state and county resources, food assistance, low-cost healthcare, childcare, and more, our resource guide is a growing list of resources in the state that are available to people in need of assistance.
Who to Follow
Oregon Office of Emergency Management
Tweets by OregonOEM
Oregon Department of Forestry
Tweets by ORDeptForestry
Oregon State Fire Marshal
Tweets by OSFM
Red Cross Cascades
Tweets by RedCrossCasc