Gatlinburg relief fund established

Gatlinburg, Tenn. - December 1, 2016 - In the wake of this week's tragic wildfires in Gatlinburg and the Great Smoky Mountains, the Gatlinburg Chamber of Commerce Foundation has established the Gatlinburg Relief Fund which will directly benefit the families impacted by the wildfires.

The relief fund is being managed by SmartBank, an East Tennessee-based community bank with multiple branches in Sevier County. Anyone who would like to contribute to this fund may either drop off a monetary donation at a SmartBank location (listed below) or by mailing the donation to PO Box 1910, Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, 37868-1910. Checks should be made payable to "Gatlinburg Relief Fund."

Additionally, the foundation is accepting online gifts here or at www.smartbank.com.

"Since the fires began earlier this week, we have been inundated with calls from people wanting to know how they can help," said Billy Carroll, SmartBank President & CEO. "After talking with Gatlinburg officials, they are requesting that anyone wishing to help, make a donation to the chamber's Gatlinburg Relief Fund, where the dollars can have the greatest impact."

The Gatlinburg Chamber of Commerce Foundation is a 501(c)(3) organization created to assist the local business community and citizens through various charitable efforts.