United Way B.C. is urging British Columbians to support communities affected by this year’s wildfire season by donating to its United for B.C. Wildfire Recovery Fund.
With about 90 wildfires burning across the province and nearly 10,000 people under evacuation alerts and orders, the organization said donations are needed to help meet both immediate and long-term recovery needs.
The fund supports local organizations providing emergency assistance, as well as recovery, resilience-building and preparedness efforts in the months and years after a disaster.
United Way B.C. said it has already supported the Shxwhá Village First Nation reception centre as it welcomes evacuees from Boston Bar and the Fraser Canyon. The organization added that it is working with emergency management teams and community partners to respond as needs emerge.
“Wildfires are affecting communities across British Columbia, bringing uncertainty, displacement, and loss for many people,” said Michael McKnight, president and CEO of United Way B.C.
“British Columbians have always come together to support one another in times of crisis. Through the United for B.C. Wildfire Recovery Fund, we can help ensure communities have access to critical supports not only during an emergency, but throughout the recovery process that follows.”
According to United Way B.C., donations help fund services including food assistance, mental health and wellness supports, outreach services, community connections and other locally identified recovery initiatives.
Community members who wish to contribute can donate through the United for B.C. Wildfire Recovery Fund at uwbc.ca/wildfires. The organization said every donation helps local agencies respond to urgent needs while supporting long-term recovery for communities affected by wildfires.
