For those who are witnessing the BC wildfires and wondering what they can do to help those in need, the Canadian Red Cross has set up a donation page.
It says donations will go towards immediate relief such as cots, blankets, family reunification and financial assistance for food, clothing and personal needs.
And beyond meeting immediate needs, donations may also “help re-entry and go towards more long-term recovery, resiliency and preparedness.”
Donations can be made personally or on behalf of an organization.
Help support people impacted by wild fires across British Columbia: https://t.co/WuxgvySrD6 #BCFires #BCwildfires pic.twitter.com/nkAe3Qz7YI
— Canadian Red Cross (@redcrosscanada) July 9, 2017
More than 10,000 British Columbians have had to evacuate their homes in recent days as a result of the fires, and highway closures are in effect as well
And this past weekend a provincial state of emergency was declared by the BC government. It was the first such declaration because of wildfires since 2003.
Click here to donate to wildfire relief efforts through the Red Cross.
BC Liquor Stores Stores accepting fire relief donations
In addition to making donations to the Red Cross online, people can now donate at any BC Liquor Store branch.
Customers can contribute at the till – in increments of $2, $5, or multiples thereof – with all proceeds going directly to the Red Cross.
“The generosity and compassion shown by our customers and employees during times of crisis is something we are incredibly proud of – it is the foundation of our partnership with the Red Cross,” said Blain Lawson, general manager and CEO, Liquor Distribution Branch. “Our thoughts are with all British Columbians, and their family and friends, who are impacted by the current wildfire situation.”
There are approximately 220 wildfires currently burning in British Columbia.
The extended weather forecast is calling for continued hot, dry weather, with risks of thunderstorms in many parts of the province.