Several groups and businesses have been helping out where they can by offering free meals to our first responders who have been inundated by grass fires and have been working to contain them. Here are a few ways you can help, too.
Texas Panhandle VOAD
According to information posted under Texas Panhandle VOAD, “cash is best” when responding to disasters, because financial donations provide the best means for support. Donating money instead of physical items helps relief agencies focus on helping survivors instead of sorting, transporting, and storing unneeded goods.
The Panhandle Disaster Relief Fund works alongside trusted organizations actively serving affected communities, ensuring resources reach people who need them most — fast. Every dollar can be directed where the need is greatest, whether that’s emergency shelter, livestock support, meals, recovery assistance, or long-term rebuilding efforts.
“As National VOAD reminds us, In times like these, flexible funding creates the greatest impact,” a social media post says. “Join us in supporting our neighbors across the Texas Panhandle. Together, we can help communities recover, rebuild, and heal.”
Shark Beach Burgers donating meals to front-line responders
The crew at Shark Beach Burgers is offering first responders who are battling numerous fires a free meal through Monday, May 18.
“Thank you to all first responders battling the wildfires across our area,” they posted on Facebook. “Your courage, sacrifice and long hours protecting our community do not go unnoticed,” they said. “We are praying for the safety and protection for everyone involved.”
When contacted a spokesman said they said that they are doing it through closing time Monday evening and are closed Tuesday and Wednesday. “Even if the fires are contained all the way, we welcome them to come and get some nourishment.”
Canyon Elks Lodge
The Canyon Elks Lodge is accepting monetary donations for victims impacted by fires. Every donation will be toward helping families and individuals during this difficult time, according to information sent out by the group. To donate, please go to https://square.link/u/MwGYzsS7?src=sheet.
There are several active fundraising attempts going for various Canyon families. Please check the GoFundMe website to check for those in need. They include one for Dylan, who lost everything he owned in the wildfire that started when lightning struck the dry grassland, organized by Nathan Rigdon.
Operation First Response
First Responders Bridge
More wildfire donation and supply drop-offs:
For more, call 806-626-9813
Texas Panhandle Livestock Disaster Fund relief
There are actually two drop sites to support ranchers and farmers impacted by ongoing wildfires throughout the Panhandle:
504 White Fence Road, Canyon
23133 23 Road, Meade, Kansas
Better Business Bureau offers safe online help
The BBB has set up a hub of information to help navigate recovery safely and confidently.
Avoiding contractor scams, understanding insurance, donations and rebuilding, the BBBs wildfire resource center is designed to help families and communities during challenging times. Explore the resources at https://www.bbb.org/all/natural-disasters/wildlife-resources.
Amarillo Area Foundation
The Amarillo Area Foundation has activated the Panhandle Disaster Relief Fund response to the fires across our region. Every donation fuels direct relief for our neighbors. Those who wish to donate can go to https://amarilloareafoundation.org/disaster/
City of Canyon lists resources
Although the City of Canyon is not set up to receive donations or money at their Fire Station or City Hall, they have a listing at online at https://www.canyontx.gov1812/11085/May-2026-Donations-and-Resouces.
100 Club of the Texas Panhandle
The 100 Club of the Texas Panhandle is always active in getting donations to help police and fire departments across our area. To donate, go to https://texaspanhandle100club.org/donate.
All funds donated stay in the Texas Panhandle.
This article originally appeared on Amarillo Globe-News: How you can help first responders, victims of Panhandle wildfires
Reporting by Nell Williams, Amarillo Globe-News / Amarillo Globe-News
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
