Mandatory Evacuations Lifted for Spokane County

Recovery & Healing Begins

With mandatory evacuation orders for Spokane County officially lifted as of August 11, the community and our long-term care facilities are entering the next phase of the wildfire response: recovery and rebuilding. Hundreds of assisted living and skilled nursing residents will begin returning to their facilities and homes, while many displaced staff members, including those who have suffered the loss of their homes, begin the challenging process of rebuilding their lives.

As operations begin to return to normal, it is important that we continue to support one another’s well-being. Facilities should closely assess residents for potential post-traumatic stress, emotional distress, and other psychosocial needs that may have resulted from the evacuation experience. Compassionate care and ongoing check-ins will be essential during this transition.

We also want to remind facilities that financial assistance and compensation opportunities may become available in the coming weeks and months. While specific programs and eligibility requirements are still being determined, it is critical that organizations maintain detailed records of all evacuation and recovery-related expenses. Documentation may include:

• Staff response time and overtime costs
• Food and meal expenses
• Transportation costs
• Clothing purchased for residents who were unable to retrieve personal belongings
• Equipment transportation costs, such as renting U-Hauls to move wheelchairs, walkers, and other necessary items
• Hotel and lodging expenses for displaced staff

Keeping organized records through spreadsheets, payroll trackers, receipts, and other documentation will help support future reimbursement or funding opportunities.

Thank you to all facilities, staff members, partners, and community responders who worked tirelessly to ensure resident safety during this challenging time. If you have questions or need assistance, please contact Elena Madrid.