North Rim, Grand Canyon National Park — As smoke thickens over Arizona’s iconic Grand Canyon, and emergency sirens echo through the pine-covered plateaus, a powerful gesture has emerged from a familiar face. David Muir, award-winning journalist and anchor of ABC World News Tonight, has donated $2 million to aid families and emergency responders affected by the massive wildfire sweeping through the North Rim of Grand Canyon National Park.

The wildfire, which ignited earlier this week due to a lightning strike during a dry storm, has already scorched over 75,000 acres of forestland. Fueled by high winds and parched conditions, the blaze has forced the evacuation of dozens of rural communities, led to the closure of popular tourist trails, and put immense strain on emergency services.

A Timely Act of Compassion

In a public statement issued this morning, David Muir said:

“The Grand Canyon is more than a national treasure — it’s home to families, workers, park rangers, and Native communities whose lives are deeply intertwined with this land. Watching the destruction unfold, I felt compelled to do more than just report on it. This is about standing with people when they need it most.”

Muir’s $2 million donation will be directed to a coordinated relief fund managed by the Red Cross, the National Park Foundation, and tribal emergency support units. The funds will go toward temporary housing, food supplies, medical aid, mental health services, and firefighting logistics.

According to relief officials, the money is expected to make an immediate impact.

“We are incredibly grateful for Mr. Muir’s generosity,” said Angela Serrano, regional director of the American Red Cross in Arizona. “This donation will help stabilize displaced families and equip our crews with much-needed resources. The timing could not be more critical.”

Local Communities Hit Hard

Several communities, including Jacob Lake, Marble Canyon, and parts of the Kaibab Indian Reservation, have been evacuated. Many residents left with only the clothes on their backs. Emergency shelters have been set up in Kanab and Flagstaff, but supplies are running low.

Among the evacuees is Sarah Greyson, a single mother of three who lives near the park’s edge. She tearfully told reporters:

“I’ve never seen anything like this. We lost our home, our animals — everything. Knowing that someone like David Muir is helping gives us hope. It means the world.”

Firefighting Efforts Ongoing

As of Thursday morning, over 1,200 firefighters and support staff are battling the blaze. Air tankers, helicopters, and bulldozers are being deployed around the clock, but containment remains at only 18% due to difficult terrain and unpredictable wind shifts.

Meteorologists warn that dry conditions will persist into the weekend, heightening the risk of further spread. Park authorities have extended trail closures and issued air quality warnings for surrounding counties.

More Than a Donation — A Call to Action

This isn’t the first time David Muir has stepped forward in times of crisis. Known for his humanitarian reporting and quiet philanthropy, Muir has supported disaster relief in Puerto Rico, Ukraine, and various parts of the U.S.

His latest gesture is not just a donation — it’s a call to action.

“I hope this inspires others to help however they can,” Muir said. “Whether it’s donating, volunteering, or simply checking in on someone affected — we all have the power to show up for one another.”

How to Help

Those wishing to support the wildfire relief efforts can visit:

• www.redcross.org/grandcanyonfire

• www.nationalparks.org/fire-relief

Every contribution — big or small — brings relief, dignity, and hope to those facing unimaginable loss.