The wildfires in the southwest of the Community of Madrid have forced the evacuation of thousands of people. The Church of Madrid and Cáritas of Getafe are already on the ground providing support and have set up accounts for donations.
The wildfires that have been affecting several municipalities in the southwest of the Community of Madrid since Wednesday, July 22, have led to the evacuation of thousands of residents. In response to this emergency, the Church of Madrid and the diocesan Cáritas of Getafe have activated their aid and support systems for those affected.
The fire, which originated in the Toledo municipality of Almorox, quickly spread to Madrid towns such as Robledo de Chavela, Fresnedillas de la Oliva, Navalagamella, and Zarzalejo, which were evacuated on the afternoon of Friday, July 24. This was followed by Aldea del Fresno, Navas del Rey, Chapinería, Colmenar del Arroyo, Pelayos de la Presa, Villa del Prado, and San Martín de Valdeiglesias, where the flames forced residents to evacuate. Other municipalities such as Rozas de Puerto Real, Cenicientos, and Cadalso de los Vidrios remain on alert for possible spread.
The parish priests of the affected towns have actively collaborated in the evacuation efforts, especially assisting elderly people living alone. The VII vicarage of the diocese of Madrid remains on alert regarding the evolution of the fire. Several priests have moved to the designated points set up to accommodate evacuees, offering human and spiritual support to those who have had to leave their homes.
Meanwhile, Cáritas diocesana de Getafe has launched the campaign 'Help for the towns affected by the fire in the southwest of the Community of Madrid'. The organisation has already made itself available to the Community of Madrid to channel the aid that the administrations deem necessary. To raise funds, a bank account (ES12 0049 1894 59 2810193167) and a Bizum code (01182) have been set up for donations intended for those affected.
The Church of Madrid has expressed its solidarity with the affected communities and continues to follow the evolution of the fires with concern. The priests and parishes in the area remain alongside the residents, providing support in the reception centres and coordinating with emergency services.
The fires, which have devastated thousands of hectares of forest land, have necessitated the mobilization of numerous firefighters and aerial resources. The priority at this time is to ensure the safety of people and control the advance of the flames, which have been favoured by high temperatures and wind.
For the residents of the Community of Madrid, this emergency poses a direct threat to their homes and natural surroundings. Many have had to be relocated to improvised shelters or to relatives' homes. The help from parishes and Cáritas is essential to meet basic needs such as food, water, and clothing.
Residents of the affected areas are advised to follow the instructions of the authorities and stay informed through official channels. For those wishing to help, monetary donations through the channels set up by Cáritas are the most effective way to assist at this time.
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