Aspen Acres Fire: Resources and Support for Individuals and Families

Our thoughts are with everyone impacted by the Aspen Acres Fire in Pueblo and Custer Counties. At The Resource Exchange, we know that emergencies can be especially challenging for individuals with disabilities, older adults, caregivers, and families who may need additional support. We’ve gathered the latest information and trusted resources to help community members stay informed and connected.

Current Situation

The Aspen Acres Fire has grown to more than 90,000 acres and remains an active incident affecting Custer, Fremont, Huerfano & Pueblo counties and surrounding communities. Mandatory evacuations remain in place for multiple areas, and additional evacuation orders have been issued as fire activity continues.

State and federal resources have been mobilized to support firefighting efforts. Governor Jared Polis declared a disaster emergency, and FEMA has approved a Fire Management Assistance Grant to help cover firefighting costs.

Where to Get Official Updates

For the most accurate and up-to-date information, follow official emergency management sources:

Emergency Information

• Pueblo Emergency Information: https://www.puebloemergency.info
• Pueblo County Sheriff’s Office: https://www.pueblosheriff.org

These sites provide evacuation updates, road closures, incident maps, shelter information, and emergency alerts.

Road Closures and Travel

• COtrip: https://www.cotrip.org

Road conditions and closures are changing as fire activity shifts. Check before traveling.

Air Quality Information

• AirNow: https://www.airnow.gov

Smoke from the fire has resulted in poor air quality across portions of southern Colorado. Health officials recommend limiting outdoor activities, keeping windows closed, and monitoring symptoms related to smoke exposure.

Shelter and Evacuation Support

Evacuation Shelters

• Lange Hall at 312 3rd St, Westcliffe, CO 81252
• Pathfinder Park at 6655 CO-115, Florence, CO 81226

Pueblo County Recreation Center 1650 Cooper Place, Pueblo

The American Red Cross is supporting evacuees at this location and providing shelter, food, water, health services, information, and emotional support. Household pets are also being accommodated. [redcross.org], [gazette.com]

Animal and Livestock Shelter

Colorado State Fairgrounds Enter through Gate 7 off Small Avenue

Large animals and livestock are being accepted at this location. Officials have also indicated that RV parking is available for livestock owners who have evacuated.

Transportation Assistance

Emergency transportation support has been available for some evacuees, particularly older adults and individuals with disabilities who may need assistance leaving affected areas. [krdo.com]

Additional Community Resources

Information Centers:

Pueblo County Joint Information Center: (719) 583-4640

Disaster Assistance Center (DAC): Full operations begin Wednesday, July 1, 2026 at Pueblo Academy of Arts, formerly Pitts Middle School (29 Lehigh Ave, Pueblo, CO 81005) and are currently expected to continue through July 14, 2026. Resources at the DAC will include case management, direct financial assistance, spiritual and mental health care, distribution of masks and relief supplies, clean up resources, food, basic needs kits and localized resource navigation.

• Must be a resident affected by the fire or have proof of ID and a mailing address from an affected area
• Services offered
  • Food assistance (United Way of Southern Colorado)
  • Behavioral health resources (Pueblo Department of Public Health and Environment)
  • Department of Human Services support
  • American Red Cross aid (agricultural support, private insurance inquiries)
• Hours:
  • July 7-11th 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
  • July 12 CLOSED
  • July 13-14th 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Colorado 2-1-1

Call 211 or visit https://www.211colorado.org

211 can help connect individuals and families with:

• Emergency shelter resources
• Food assistance
• Mental health services
• Financial assistance programs
• Community resources during disasters

American Red Cross

Visit https://www.redcross.org

The Red Cross is providing shelter services and disaster support to evacuees. Their Emergency App can also provide alerts and safety information.

YMCA of Pueblo

YMCA of Pueblo (3200 E Spaulding Ave, Pueblo, CO 81008) is offering full access to their facilities during business hours including showers, restrooms, drinking water, complementary Wi-Fi, device charging, a safe air-conditioned environment, and space to rest and recharge.

Tips for Individuals with Disabilities and Caregivers

If you have evacuated or may need to evacuate:

• Bring medications, medical supplies, and assistive devices if possible.
• Keep important documents in an easily accessible location.
• Maintain a list of emergency contacts.
• If you support someone with complex medical or behavioral needs, notify shelter staff of any accommodations that may be needed.
• Check air quality frequently and limit outdoor exposure during heavy smoke conditions.

We will continue monitoring the situation and encourage everyone to follow local emergency management officials for the latest updates.

How to Support

If you are interested in supporting the victims of the Aspen Acres fire, Sheriff David Lucero pointed that all donations should go to Red Cross. Be watchful of scams – do not provide personal information or send money to other places.