Earlier this week, thousands of people were evacuated from their homes in Sevier County as fire spread throughout Gatlinburg and the surrounding area.
Monetary Donations
The American Red Cross is accepting monetary donations for evacuees and first responders of the fire in Sevier County. You can make a $10 donation by texting “REDCROSS” to 90999.
Additionally, the Dollywood Foundation will provide $1,000 a month to all of those families who lost their homes in the fire for six months so they can get back on their feet. You can make a donation on the Dollywood Foundation website.
Volunteering
Those interested in volunteering should do so with organizations who are ready to receive volunteers. If you are interested in volunteering, contact the Pigeon Forge Distribution Center at 865-804-1661 to sign up for a volunteer shift.
Students Affected
If you are a student who has been affected or displaced by the fires, please contact the Office of the Dean of Students for assistance at 865-974-3179 or dos@utk.edu.
Donation Drop-Off
Donations for People
The outpouring of donated goods has been overwhelming and the Red Cross has requested that no new goods be delivered until its current supply is reduced. At this time, the Center for Leadership and Service and the Office of the Dean of Students are no longer collecting donations.
Donations for Animals
The Companion Animal Initiative of Tennessee program in the UT College of Veterinary Medicine is accepting donations for the pets of those displaced. Items needed include crates of all sizes (metal or plastic), wet and dry dog or cat food, bowls, collars, leashes, harnesses, bedding, and cleaning supplies. The program is also taking monetary donations for medical supplies to treat animals in need of medical care from the fires. Checks can be made payable to UT-CAIT. Please write “Fire Relief Fund” in the memo line. Items and monetary donations can be dropped off at the UT College of Veterinary Medicine Small Animal Admitting Hospital, 2407 River Drive.