A massive wildfire in Alberta, Canada has threatened a dozen communities since it started spreading on May 1. A mandatory evacuation has forced all 70,000 Fort McMurray residents to leave their homes in search of safety – the largest fire-related evacuation in the province’s history. The fire has destroyed homes in several areas and is threatening downtown.
The Canadian Red Cross is helping families impacted by the massive wildfires. Staff and volunteers are providing accommodations, food, and water—in addition to family reunification services. Specially trained volunteers are offering comfort and care to those who have suffered emotional trauma.
When people were evacuated, they left not knowing if they would have a home to go back to. Right now evacuated residents are in urgent need of a place to sleep, food, water and basic supplies. The Canadian Red Cross is supporting efforts at local shelters in Edmonton, Calgary, and Lac La Biche for residents evacuated from Fort McMurray. Additional personnel and equipment are on standby and ready to deploy to affected communities, if needed.
For more information about the wildfires and find out how to get help, visit redcross.ca.
How to Donate
Canadians wishing to make a financial donation can do so by visiting redcross.ca or calling 1-800-418-1111.
Americans wishing to make a financial donation can do so by visiting redcross.org.
About the American Red Cross:
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or follow us on social media.
Support all the urgent humanitarian needs of the American Red Cross.
Support all the urgent humanitarian needs of the American Red Cross.
Find a drive and schedule a blood donation appointment today.
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