Governments match Red Cross donations for Alberta wildfire recovery
The Canadian Red Cross has garnered the support of Alberta and the federal government in a collaborative, fund-matching campaign to help those affected by the ongoing wildfires in the Western Canada province
To ensure those affected by the ongoing and devastating wildfires get the assistance they need, Alberta and the federal government has joined forces with the Canadian Red Cross on a donation-matching initiative.
Earlier this month, the two governments announced a co-ordinated fund-matching program with the Canadian Red Cross to support the disaster relief efforts in Alberta communities impacted by the destructive wildfires.
Visit The Weather Network's wildfire hub to keep up with the latest on the active start to wildfire season across Western Canada.
The new campaign, 2023 Alberta Fires Appeal, sees the provincial and federal levels of government match every dollar donated to the Canadian Red Cross. The end result is that every $1 contributed will become $3 to support those affected by the wildfires.
"The widespread impact of the wildfires in Alberta calls for such a federal-provincial partnership, and demonstrates the shared commitment to support Albertans through these difficult times," Public Safety Canada said in the news release.
According to the news release, donated funds will be used for immediate, ongoing relief and recovery efforts in response to the damaging wildfires. The money will support a range of emergency services the Canadian Red Cross may deliver, and will allow it to help community groups aid impacted people and communities.
Additional support available may include financial assistance for immediate, unmet needs, and other essential services not covered by federal or provincial programs.
"The [governments] of Canada and Alberta recognize the heroic work of first responders, volunteers, non-governmental organizations and emergency managers across all levels of government, and Indigenous communities, in the response and recovery efforts in Alberta," said Public Safety Canada.
Those wishing to make a financial donation to the 2023 Alberta Fires Appeal can do so online or by calling 1-800-418-1111.
Those who have been evacuated due to wildfires are asked to register at a local reception centre or online.
The Canadian Red Cross was also involved in the recovery and relief efforts in previous emergency events in the country, including the 2017 and 2018 B.C. wildfires and the 2016 Fort McMurray, Alta., blazes.
Thumbnail courtesy of Alberta Wildfire/Twitter.
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