VALENTINE, Neb. — March 20, 2026 — The Sandhills Area Foundation has entered a pass-through agreement with John and Mark Johnson to administer the Anderson Bridge Fire Relief Fund and allow donations to be tax deductible under the Foundation's 502(c)(3) designation. This fund has been created to provide vital financial support to those impacted by the devastating Anderson Bridge Fire and related fires across the region.Under the agreement, funds donated will be tax deductible under IRS guidelines, and will be disbursed with priority given first to individuals, families, and entities directly affected by the Anderson Bridge Fire in Cherry County. Secondary consideration will be extended to those impacted by other fires within Cherry County, and tertiary assistance will be directed to neighboring areas affected by the mid-March 2026 wildfires.In addition to supporting residents, the fund will also assist local fire departments and other emergency responders who provided aid during these events.“The generosity and community spirit of John and Mark Johnson reflect the best of the Sandhills,” said Kim Marlatt, President of the Sandhills Area Foundation. “Through this partnership, we are ensuring that help reaches those who need it most as they begin rebuilding their homes and communities.”

Invest in the Sandhills by supporting our mission to nurture community strength through local initiatives. Every donation is returned locally within Cherry County.The Sandhills Area Foundation is a public charity with a mission to financially support area development and to accept and administer funds that meet the present and future needs of Cherry County. Our purpose is to provide funding for scholarships, as well as social, civic, and educational projects that encourage community involvement and promote charitable giving.Your donation helps the Sandhills Area Foundation grant resources to vital projects and events that benefit our region and to area high school, college, and non-traditional students in the form of scholarships. Embrace the spirit of giving to bolster local engagement, uniting residents in shared goals and aspirations.Join us in fostering a collaborative future for the community. Your contribution will make a tangible, positive difference in the Sandhills of Cherry County. Our mission is to Invest in the Sandhills of Cherry County for future generations to prosper.

Your gift strengthens the Sandhills. Every donation supports local scholarships to high school, college, and non-traditional students right here at home 🌾.Give today to invest in the future of the Sandhills region 🤝.