Multiple organizations are helping the Red Cross shelter, with The Salvation Army serving meals, Washoe County delivering water, and community donations of water and snacks; however, cooked food donations aren’t accepted and clothing should go to Goodwill due to capacity limits, while financial gifts are encouraged via 1-800-RED-CROSS or local Red Cross offices.

Pets are allowed inside the shelter, and people can come and go; after an initial food shortage, a pet area is being built as some residents choose to stay outside with their animals.

There is no fixed closure date for the shelter; it remains open as long as needed to assist thousands of displaced residents and ongoing evacuation orders.

The Reno-Sparks Red Cross shelter at the convention center housed 243 people overnight, down from more than 400 on opening night, with a few sleeping in cars due to pet-related concerns.

Shelter conditions include daytime air conditioning and comfortable nights, with head counts for overnight occupancy; the facility serves elderly residents (including those on oxygen), children, and pets, and provides clothing, showers, and meals.

Officials urge donations through legitimate channels to prevent scams, with Mayor Hillary Schieve directing support to the Community Foundation Nevada or the Red Cross and updates to come via official sources; volunteers are vetted through the Red Cross, and the Northern Nevada Chapter is supported by over 200 volunteers across 13 counties.