In the wake of the Brimson Complex fires, which scorched homes, outbuildings, and forestland across northeastern Minnesota, one thing has been clear: the heart and strength of the Brimson community burns brighter than any blaze.
As flames tore through properties and smoke clouded the sky, neighbors stepped up, not just to help during the emergency, but to lay the foundation for long-term recovery.
St. Louis County Sheriff Gordon Ramsay has repeatedly expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support, urging residents to stay engaged for the long haul. The needs, he emphasized at the time, won’t end with containment of the fire.
In response to the tragedy, a local effort sprang into action. Brimson Strong Community Support & Recovery has become a lifeline for those impacted. The group aims to support residents, families, and friends of Brimson and has offered to be a steady source of aid and encouragement as the community, according to its Facebook page, works to “recover and rebuild after the fire.”
The group’s mission is simple yet powerful: to “provide a place where people can share information, offer help, and stay informed about recovery efforts.”
From June 26–28, the group opened a Resource Center for Residents at Bassett Town Hall. Inside, the space was stocked with donated essentials—cleanup supplies, nonperishable food, clothing, toiletries, and more.
But perhaps the most important things on offer were compassion and solidarity. Volunteers greeted visitors with open arms, offering not only necessities, but also “friendly faces”—a reminder that no one has to walk this difficult road alone. The center also served as a safe space where fire victims could express their needs.
Volunteer Michaela Schliep has been a leading voice for the recovery effort. In a heartfelt video shared to the Brimson Strong Community Support & Recovery Facebook page, she praised both the hard-working volunteers and the generosity of neighbors.
“Today we had quite a few residents come through,” she said. “They are just overwhelmed with the generosity of this community so I just want to extend that thank you to everybody who has donated and or have helped out here. So just thank you very much.”
As recovery shifts into the cleanup phase, Schliep says one of the biggest needs now is hands-on help. Wrecking crews are expected in the coming weeks, but volunteers will be needed to assist families in sorting through debris, retrieving salvageable items, and removing unsalvageable debris.
There’s also a critical need for tree removal and wood chipping across fire-damaged properties, an effort that is logistically daunting and often cost-prohibitive for individual families.
“If you have any equipment, or a chainsaw, and you’re willing to help out a resident please let me know,” said Schliep. “Those quotes are quite high, and I think that’s something we could accomplish together as a team.”
Her message to potential volunteers is simple and sincere: “Every hand helps. So please reach out if you want to donate and help a resident in need.”
Schliep herself knows the heartbreak firsthand. Her own property was impacted by the fire, and she lost nearly all of her chickens, except for one resilient hen named Reba, who has since become a beloved mascot for the recovery group and an unexpected symbol of hope.
For those looking to lend a hand, whether with donations, time, or tools, please contact helpbrimsonfire@gmail.com to get involved. Also visit the Brimson Strong Community Support & Recovery Facebook page to keep up on news, needs, and events.
