The Greater Northern Lehigh Chamber of Commerce, in collaboration with the Greater Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce, organized an emergency fundraiser in response to the Blue Mountain wildfire, which burned over 500 acres.

The weeklong wildfire — one of the worst ever in the region — erupted on the Blue Mountain on Nov. 2 near the Appalachian Trail and Route 248.

Bob Kurilla, spokesman for the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, said firefighters had fortified the perimeter to make sure the blaze couldn’t spread further despite the challenging drought conditions.

The fundraiser aimed to provide critical support to local volunteer fire departments and emergency crews working tirelessly to contain the blaze under challenging conditions.

The wildfire, which initially started in Lehigh Township, rapidly spread due to dry weather conditions and strong winds, threatening local wildlife habitats, infrastructure and natural resources.

Emergency response teams from multiple counties, including Northampton, Lehigh, Carbon and Berks, were mobilized, but the effort placed a significant strain on local fire departments, which rely heavily on volunteers and tight budgets.

While resources were not in short supply, the fire departments expressed that funds were urgently needed to cover the rising costs of fuel and machinery essential for battling the flames.

Local businesses and residents stepped in, raising a combined total of $12,065.

The funds will be distributed by the Greater Northern Lehigh Chamber Board to the many regional fire departments within their footprint that responded and assisted during this emergency.

“We commend the bravery and dedication of our local firefighters and first responders,” said Jessica O’Donnell Gower, executive vice president of the Affiliated Chambers at the GLVCC. “The outpouring of support we’ve received from the community and our local businesses was heartwarming to see. So many come people coming together to help those who are working to protect our community.”

The Greater Northern Lehigh Chamber will be presenting checks to the following fire departments: Lehigh Township Fire Company, Germansville Fire Company, Lynnport Fire Company, New Tripoli Fire Company, Laurys Station Fire Company, Schnecksville Fire Company, Neffs Fire Company, Tri-Clover Fire Company, Slatington Fire Department, Diamond Fire Company, Friedens Fire Company, Slatedale Fire Company and Emerald Fire Company.