In August, fires swept across the slopes of the Cotacachi Volcano and the surrounding highlands, threatening fragile ecosystems, grazing lands, wildlife habitat, and rural communities. As smoke filled the horizon, hundreds of residents, volunteers, and a dozen firefighters mobilized to protect their homes and natural resources. Yet in many areas, those responding to the emergency faced a difficult reality: limited equipment, long hours, and challenging terrain made an already demanding situation even more difficult.

For days, communities worked tirelessly to contain the flames, often relying on determination and local solidarity. Some parents began their journey to the fire lines as early as 4:00 a.m., leaving their children in the care of neighbors or older family members so they could join the effort to protect their communities.

As reports from the affected areas reached us, it became clear that those on the front lines needed support. After speaking with local authorities and firefighters, we learned that the greatest need was not specialized equipment, but the basics: drinking water, rehydration drinks, dried fruit and nuts, masks to protect against smoke inhalation, eye drops, gauze, burn cream, and other essential supplies that would allow teams to remain on the fire lines for long hours. At the same time, we knew that livestock and companion animals in the affected areas would also need assistance.

What followed was a powerful demonstration of what can happen when a community comes together to help its neighbors. Thanks to the generosity of our donors and the efforts of local partner organizations, we quickly mobilized resources and assembled both human and animal aid packages.

Our team traveled to the areas where firefighters and volunteers were resting to deliver the supplies they needed to continue their work. We also went door to door in affected communities, checking on animals and providing food and water to families caring for them.

While the danger has not entirely passed, with some fires occasionally flaring up again, we are grateful to be part of a community that comes together in times of need to protect one another, their animals, and the land on which they depend.

The response to the Cotacachi fires served as a powerful reminder that resilience is strongest when it is shared.