Gov. Inslee tours wildfire damage across Washington

OLYMPIA – More than 629,000 acres have been consumed by wildfire in Washington state since Monday. Washington, along with Oregon and California, is experiencing some of the largest fires in their states' respective histories in just the last week.

Gov. Jay Inslee issued a  proclamation  Thursday in response to damage from several wildfires across the state. The proclamation will help families and individuals impacted by wildfires with cash assistance for immediate needs.

The assistance provided through DSHS' Family Emergency Assistance Program has also been expanded to serve individuals and waive the one-time distribution limitation. Details on how to obtain assistance will be posted on the  Washington Connection website soon. Wildfire victims can also contact their local emergency management officials about applying for the program.

"For families impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, and now the devastating wildfires ravaging our state, funding from the Family Emergency Assistance Program can be, quite literally, a lifesaver," Inslee said. "The state will continue to look for ways to support communities as we work together to recover from multiple economic and health emergencies."