Club Atlético River Plate expressed its support for the communities affected by the fires in southern Argentina through a video in which the team's coach, Marcelo Gallardo, sent a message of solidarity and encouragement. The images show the consequences of the fires that have caused the loss of homes and thousands of hectares of native forest in El Bolsón and Epuyén.
In the video, Gallardo expressed: "We want you to know that we are with you and send you a strong hug." He also emphasized the need to help the affected families, providing support for children to return to school as well as tools for families and firefighters involved in cleanup and containment efforts.
The club announced on its official website that those who wish to donate can do so on Tuesday, February 18, and Wednesday, February 19, at the club's museum, located next to the Monumental stadium. Donations of school kits, pairs of boots, land cleaning equipment for families, and kits for firefighters are requested, which include protective elements and necessary supplies for their work.
Marcelo Gallardo highlighted the seriousness of the situation, noting that numerous homes need to be rebuilt, and mentioned the iconic places in the region that have suffered the devastating consequences of the fire, such as Villa Magdalena, Lanín National Park, and Mallín Ahogado, among others. The fire has affected more than 30,000 hectares in the provinces of Río Negro, Chubut, and Neuquén.
Gallardo's final message was one of gratitude to all the people who are tirelessly collaborating to fight the fire and help in the reconstruction of Patagonia, sending a hug to the affected families and to all the volunteers, firefighters, and brigadistas who are working to extinguish the fires and recover the affected area.
