Reflecting on 2023: Neighbors helping neighbors in River Road East Fire

In mid-December, it’s hard to remember that only four months ago several areas across western Montana were contending with forest fires.

One of those blazes was the River Road East Fire, which was sparked in August near Paradise. Although the flames have long been put out, you can still see the blackened landscape, scorched rocky hillsides, and matchbox ponderosa pines. Several structures and homes were lost in the fire, and although it didn’t happen in Mineral County, an army of volunteers, businesses and faithful neighbors stepped up for their friends with 35 plates.

During the early hours of the River Road East Fire one local company in particular helped to meet an onslaught of immediate needs. White Horse Forestry, Inc. is owned and operated out of Alberton by Ron White and his wife AnnaMarie Guerra-White. WHF, Inc. is very familiar with wildland fire response because they are a Wildland Fire Suppression Company. Their services include professional fallers, Type 6 fire engines and wildland fire training.

“As soon as the fire started and needs were apparent — I immediately began filling the many requests that were coming in directly to me. Big fire incidents like this one, while an emergency and responded to as such can sometimes feel as if things are not happening quickly enough for those in dire need of water, food, clothing, shelter or an understanding ear,” recalled Guerra-White. “Sometimes a reassuring hug that the fire is temporary, the emergency will pass and a big o’ bag of homemade deer jerky, new socks, and fresh towels are all someone may need.”

During the evolving situation needs frequently changed and White Horse Forestry, Inc. focused on coordinating donation efforts to meet those wishes. 

She stated, “At the start of the fire bottled water was the most requested. As the shelters were set up — fresh sheets, pillows, and towels were very much in demand. Towards the end with school starting requests for backpacks, school supplies, and school clothing were being asked for.” 

Every request made by those affected by the fires was met with generous provision. WHF, Inc. made a total of four trips during the event leaving no one out, and it was only made possible through enormous support from other local businesses.

Those included: Flying S Title who provided socks for the displaced as well as socks for the firefighters. Toiletries, pillows, goodies, bottled water, paper towels, and toilet paper were also collected by this Superior company. 

Pathways to Help gathered clothing, shoes, backpacks, and school supplies. Crystal Springs Enterprises collected shoes, and snacks. Darlows kindly donated food and toiletry supplies. Alberton Clothing Company offered up clothing from their organization's inventory. 

The Mineral County Juliette Girl Scouts delivered cookies to the firefighters. Mineral County’s Kinship Navigator Project gave school supplies, small toys, and books. White Horse Forestry, INC amassed bottled water, socks, pillows, sheets, sleeping bags, air purifiers, clothing, fruit, and school supplies. Two other private donors contributed bottled water, and desperately needed air purifiers.

Guerra-White expressed, “I’m hoping that an article about how community has no physical boundaries will show that we truly are all in this together — that a neighbor is a neighbor regardless of distance. Mineral County residents stepped up for Sanders County in a time of great need and uncertainty for the fire victims and they deserve our thanks and gratitude. I didn’t want the year to end without acknowledging those who unselfishly helped out at a moment’s notice. I appreciate them immensely!”

And as those affected by the fire continue to rebuild, it’s safe to assume they’ll approach this Christmastime with grateful hearts for all they’ve come through and the love and support of neighbors. The end of the year is always a fitting time to look back, reflect, give thanks, and take stock of how blessed we all are.

    Penelope White (left) high fives Olivia White during a drop off of donations to Sanders county residents back during the River Road East Fire in August. (Photo courtesy/AnnaMarie Guerra-White)