Fires are destroying the homes of your fellow British Columbians – they need your help now
As you read this, many of your fellow British Columbians are waiting to hear if they have to evacuate their homes.
As you read this, many of your fellow British Columbians are waiting to hear if they have to evacuate their homes.
Others are waiting to return to their communities to see what of their lives is left.
We all know that the community of Lytton has been decimated by a raging wildfire after recording Canada’s highest ever temperature of 49.6 degrees Celsius. Residents of the town, the Lytton First Nation and Oregon Jack Creek Band had to hastily evacuate. Many of them will return to find they have little left. Early reports say that most homes and structures in the village have been destroyed.
This year’s wildfire season is expected to exact a terrible cost. Which is why we are taking action.
United Way British Columbia – working with communities in B.C.’s Interior, Lower Mainland, Central & Northern Vancouver Island – has re-launched The United for BC Wildfire Recovery Fund.
While emergency crews are already battling more than 100 active wildfires in B.C., with more than 100 out-of-province fire crews coming into assist, we know we have a job to do, too. United Way BC will be there for those devastated by this wildfire season.
We’ve made an initial $200,000 investment which will be provided as grants to essential non-profit agencies so that they can re-build supportive programs for those affected by wildfires. Grants will help those who are displaced or have lost housing, belongings and/or employment, suffered physical or mental health trauma, as well as provide health and safety education.
But the need is already great, and we need your help to be able to support everyone in need.
United, we are capable of helping our fellow British Columbians rebuild their lives.