Ruins of a home in the Talent/Phoenix area after the 2020 Almeda Fire.
Brian Bull / KLCC
Oregon homes and businesses damaged or destroyed by the 2020 wildfires can get financial help through a state and multi-county partnership.
Eight counties and the Oregon Building Codes Division are coordinating a grant program for rebuilding costs. Examples include $2,200 towards roofing, and $350 for ventilation.
Mark Peterson of the Oregon Department of Consumer Business Services says this is all part of what’s called fire hardening.
“Fire hardening can include actions that can be taken to make a home or business more resistant to the damage from a wildfire, such as using materials for siding and roofing that resist ignition during a wildfire,” said Peterson. “Installing fire-resistant windows to protect openings, or using attic ventilation devices to help reduce ember intrusion.”
Peterson adds if someone has already started or finished their rebuilding efforts, they can still apply for over $6,000 in grant money. Information can be found here.
The eligible counties are Lane, Clackamas, Klamath, Douglas, Jackson, Lincoln, Linn, and Marion.