Hawk Fire evacuees can apply for free Airbnb stays
Airbnb.org and United Way of Northern Nevada and the Sierra are helping displaced families book temporary stays after the Hawk Fire.
RENO, Nevada (CNN)- People displaced by the Hawk Fire in Nevada have a new resource to help them find temporary housing.
Airbnb.org is working with United Way of Northern Nevada and the Sierra to provide free Airbnb stays for families affected by the fire.
Airbnb.org is a nonprofit created by Airbnb to provide free housing during major disasters, including hurricanes and wildfires.
“Our hearts go out to these communities,” one Airbnb.org representative said. “This is going to be a long recovery. We want you to know you’re not alone.”
According to the nonprofit, Airbnb.org has already responded to 150 disasters around the world this year.
Free temporary stays
United Way of Northern Nevada and the Sierra says Airbnb.org reached out about the opportunity to provide free housing for families displaced by the Hawk Fire.
“Over the last 24 hours, it became apparent there was a big need,” one representative said.
The free stays are expected to range from 10 to 28 days at first.
“We’re looking at a 10 to 28 day stay at the beginning, which lets people sort of catch their breath, figure out what their options are, and then move on,” a representative said.
How the program works
The organizations say the goal is to give displaced families a place to stay that feels more comfortable than a shelter, hotel or staying with friends and relatives.
Instead of Airbnb.org choosing a place for each family, people who apply can receive credits to book a stay that fits their needs.
The amount of credit depends on the family’s situation, the number of people in the household and the average daily rate in the area.
“Between 10 and 28 nights, depending on the program, how many people are in the family and then the average daily rate in that particular area,” a representative said. “With those credits, then folks can go book whatever Airbnb they want and figure out what works for their particular family.”
Hosts are paid by the nonprofit. Hosts can also sign up to donate their space, which allows the credits to stretch further.
