(SOUTHERN COLORADO) — VFW posts across El Paso County have stepped up to collect supplies for those affected by the Aspen Acres Fire. A recent donation drive in Fountain gathered much-needed items that will be delivered to the United Way of Southern Colorado in Pueblo.

The delivery is scheduled for Tuesday, July 21, to the United Way’s donation and distribution center.

The effort is personal for many volunteers from District Five and Auxiliary VFW posts, including Post 101, 6461, 3917, 4051, and 5221, as well as the Department of Colorado VFW Order of the Cooties. Some have family members who were forced to evacuate and lost belongings in the fire, making the decision to help an easy one.

The VFW posts checked with United Way of Southern Colorado for a list of the supplies that are currently most needed. Scott Alexander, State Jr. Vice Commander for VFW Post 3917, elaborated on the types of supplies collected by the volunteers.

“We have water, we have the Gatorade, we have the wipes, we have nonperishable foods. And we have two trailers loaded up, and we had another trailer that went down two weeks ago,” Alexander said.

The VFW posts are ensuring that the supplies address immediate needs for those impacted by the wildfire. Volunteers continue to prioritize effective support based on the changing needs communicated by United Way.

The collected supplies came from both VFW members and the broader community, including a pallet of water from Peaks and Pines Brewery, as well as donations from Staples and Mountain Post Santa’s Workshop. The supplies are set to be delivered to the United Way of Southern Colorado’s donation and distribution center in Pueblo on Tuesday, with the District 5 VFW Warriors motorcycles planning to lead the procession.

The United Way of Southern Colorado emphasizes that for those who continue to wish to help, financial contributions allow for the most flexible and targeted assistance for fire victims.

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