Secours populaire calls for long-term aid for fire victims in Gironde

Bordeaux – 28/07/2026: Following the ongoing wildfires in the Gironde and Landes departments, Secours populaire is calling for targeted, long-term support for those affected. The aid organization is also warning against bringing large quantities of in-kind donations to collection points without prior coordination. According to the organization, material reserves are currently sufficient for immediate emergency aid. Further deliveries could place an additional burden on volunteers, as they would need to be sorted, stored and distributed.

What is needed above all are financial donations and volunteer work coordinated with local branches. Secours populaire intends to support affected families beyond the acute evacuation phase: with necessary administrative procedures, reorganizing their daily lives and finding longer-term assistance. Aid will also be available to people living alone and local businesses whose activities have been interrupted by the fires.

The situation remains tense in several municipalities west and northwest of Bordeaux. According to the Gironde department, areas around Saumos, Le Temple, Sainte-Hélène, Le Porge, Lège-Cap-Ferret, Arès, Andernos-les-Bains and Marcheprime have been affected by the fires. Numerous roads and cycle paths are closed. Authorities are urging the public to avoid operational areas so that firefighters and emergency services can work without obstruction.

Strict wildfire protection measures are in force throughout the department. Natural areas and forest land are largely closed to the public. Cultural and sporting events remain prohibited in Gironde until 6 a.m. on 8 August. Authorities cite the high risk posed by heat, drought and wind as the reason for the restrictions. Every additional potential source of fire must be avoided.

At the same time, relief structures are focusing on receiving and advising evacuees. The department’s social services operate support centers in Castelnau-de-Médoc and Lanton. The Bordeaux Bar Association has set up an emergency hotline for victims. In Villenave-d’Ornon, among others, the Red Cross and Civil Protection are coordinating accommodation and assistance for people who have had to leave their homes or holiday accommodation.

Private offers of assistance should also be deployed only in a coordinated manner. Bordeaux Métropole is pooling proposals for volunteer work and accommodation through its own procedure. Anyone wishing to provide agricultural equipment or labor should first register with the Gironde Chamber of Agriculture. This enables the prefecture and emergency services to direct support to where it is actually needed. Secours populaire’s appeal for donations is therefore accompanied by a clear request: those wishing to help should follow the guidance of authorities and organizations.