The Clackamas County Fairgrounds has housed more than 1,500 animals — not all at the same time — I’m the last week, acting as an emergency shelter for both people and livestock while wildfires rampaged through the southern and central parts of the county.
In total, the fairgrounds has served 1,565 since Sept. 8, staff reported in a Facebook post. There were 754 animals — including horses, llamas, sheep, goats, cows, pigs, emus, chickens, rabbits, turtles and even a handicapped duck — on the grounds as of Sunday, Sept. 13.
“There has been a tremendous amount of donations from food, clothing, pet food and much more that have been given to people and animals in need,” the fairgrounds said on Facebook. “A HUGE thank you to all the businesses and individuals that have been so generous with their donations. For these donations, all are eternally grateful.”
Donations can be made through the Clackamas County Fair Improvement Foundation at any time. These donations will be given to those staying on the grounds who have been displaced by the fires, and any excess items will be distributed to other charitable organizations throughout Clackamas County.
Mayor Brian Hodson reported Saturday that one item the fairgrounds was most in need of was blankets, explaining “the nights have been much cooler and [evacuees] did not leave with blankets.”
“We can’t thank our community members, volunteers and people who have contributed enough!” the fairgrounds said. “Thank you so much for all your support, the strength of our community will get us through this crisis.”
Though the fairgrounds and The Canby Current continue to receive inquiries about whether help or donations are needed at the site, officials reported early Monday afternoon that they are all set.
