Two fast-spreading wildfires destroyed thousands of acres in southern New Mexico and forced people to evacuate with little notice.

The South Fork Fire and the Salt Fire both ignited on Monday, June 17, and the following day the Village of Ruidoso posted a mandatory evacuation.  

The message posted on X read, "GO!" Status - Please do not try to gather belongings or protect your home - GO NOW!!"

More than 8,000 people heeded the warning and left as smoke and flames filled the sky. 

The wildfires destroyed homes, businesses, and scorched nearly 26,000 acres. People and pets have lost everything. 

Greater Good Charities' Disaster Response team headed to the devastated area to hand out supplies for people and pets, thanks to your support. 

The team states, "We mobilized our Disaster Response Team to Ruidoso, partnering with organizations on the ground to support hundreds of displaced families in the community and on the nearby Mescalero Apache Reservation, pets, and even livestock." 

The pet food - your donations helped provide - is being distributed by Mescalero Fish & Game to people who are unable to get supplies and to feed all the rescues animals found in the evacuation areas. 

Helping Paws Across Borders is helping injured or abandoned pets by bringing them to the Ruidoso Animal Clinic, an evacuation zone to help pets in need. Dogs found huddled under debris in shock and suffering from burns are getting the care and food they need.  

Watch the video below to hear how your donations are helping. 

As of July 10, both wildfires are roughly 90% contained and residents are starting to return to the devastated area. It will take a long time to rebuild and the displaced people and pets need our support. Donate here to lend a helping hand. 

Check out more photos below of people and pets you are helping.