Communities in Crisis Receive a United Response for Recovery
United Way British Columbia – working with communities in BC’s Interior, Lower Mainland, Central & Northern Vancouver Island, has re-launched The United for BC Wildfire Recovery Fund.
Communities across British Columbia have already been profoundly affected by a 2021 wildfire season that promises to continue posing extraordinary challenges for the safety and recovery of people in B.C. With the devastation in Lytton BC this week, and other fires that continue to impact the people of our regions, United Way recognizes that support will be needed for both intermediate and long-term recovery efforts.
A variety of programs and essential services that strengthen vital connections will be critical as BC residents recover physically and emotionally from the devastation of wildfires within our local communities. To that end, United Way British Columbia – working with communities in BC’s Interior, Lower Mainland, Central & Northern Vancouver Island, has re-launched The United for BC Wildfire Recovery Fund – bringing together the power of many to help those affected by BC Wildfires.
With the launch of this campaign, United Way British Columbia (UWBC) is making an initial $200K investment, and appeals to the public to contribute to the fund.
Grants from the United for BC Wildfire Recovery Fund will support those who are displaced or have lost housing, belongings and/or employment, suffered physical or mental health trauma, as well as for the provision of health and safety education. To ensure the greatest impact, grants will support essential non-profit agencies in re-building supportive programs within effected regions.
“We recognize the deep trauma that wildfires have on individual lives as we respond in local communities across British Columbia,” says Michael McKnight, President and CEO of the new United Way British Columbia. “The United for BC Wildfire Recovery Fund is one of the ways we realize the strength of an amalgamated United Way. Now we are able to provide more support to communities across the regions we serve. We encourage B.C. residents to support their neighbours and donate to the United for BC Wildfire Recovery Fund.”
To contribute to the United for BC Wildfire Recovery Fund, visit: https://donate.uwbc.ca/.
Additional Information:
United Ways across BC have previously raised more than $170,000.00 to support the recovery and rebuilding of those affected by the 2017 provincial state of emergency.
UWBC also encourages those who need immediate assistance to access BC211.ca. bc211 connects individuals and organizations to local community, social and government resources. 211 supports Canadians during crisis situations and can provide access to housing supports, financial assistance, food and supply providers, trauma and mental health supports and so much more. This confidential service connects people from all communities to essential health and human services 24 hour a day, seven days a week, available online or by webchat. #bc211 @bc211Help. In case of an emergency please dial 911.