By 
This summer, southern New Mexico communities were hit with one devastating wildfire after another. The South Fork and Salt fires hit Ruidoso and the surrounding areas including the Mescalero Apache Reservation with a shocking ripple effect on these small communities.
The wildfires forced the evacuation of more than 8,000 people for weeks. Many were displaced for an extended period of time because of flooding, caused by water rushing through the burn scars. The fires claimed the lives of two people, destroyed more than 1,400 structures and burned 25,367 acres.
While crews were working tirelessly to safeguard the area from further fire damage – they had to shift to handle post-fire flooding in other areas of the state – responding to eight floods in four weeks from as far south and north in the state.
Northern New Mexico families impacted by the state’s largest wildfire in history – Calf Canyon/Hermits Peak fire in 2020 – are still reeling from the impacts of devastating losses and the repeated threats of flash flooding when the most recent fires started. Sadly, wildfires and flooding are becoming all too common, creating immediate and long-term environmental and social impacts.
“The wildfires and flash floods are distressing many in New Mexico, including the children, families and partners in communities we’ve served for decades. Yet, amid such tragedy, we continue to witness the community-centered dedication of our families and partners in New Mexico,” said Michelle Gutiérrez, senior program officer at the W.K. Kellogg Foundation.
The rapid response from first responders, as well as the many people leading and coordinating efforts to provide food, clothing, emergency shelter, housing and educational opportunities for displaced neighbors and families, is a testament of the people’s heart in the state. This significant coordination, including with grantees and government agencies in the southern part of the state, is critical in the recovery journey for many New Mexico residents, paving the way for rebuilding and restoring affected communities.
WKKF supports relief and rebuild efforts
The Kellogg Foundation is supporting the Community Foundation of Southern New Mexico, who through its Greatest Needs Impact Fund, is supporting local nonprofits in Lincoln and Otero counties. This fund provides financial resources to support the immediate and long-term recovery needs for the people, animals and places affected by the wildfires in Southern New Mexico. The fund also is supported by the ongoing Shelter Fund, New Mexico Wildfire Relief Fund, and Emergency Action Fund held within the Albuquerque Community Foundation. Public donations can be made here.
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