Thousands of British Columbians have been displaced from their homes due to the threat of wildfires burning across the province.
The Town of Smithers is taking the initiative to raise much-needed funds for the relief effort across the province and in Prince George where over 3,000 of those evacuees have taken refuge.
“We’ve put a little web page up on our website,” says Mayor Taylor Bachrach. “Hopefully lots of folks in Smithers will give generously.”
‘Smithers Cares’ is an initiative aimed at raising money for the Red Cross and their work on the ground with the province and emergency officials.
The money will provide immediate relief such as cots, blankets, family reunification and financial assistance for food, clothing and personal needs.
“No matter how far apart we live, we’re all neighbours. In times of need, people tend to give generously and help each other out. The town is certainly trying to do all it can to provide support,” says Bachrach.
The Smithers Fire Department says they’re on notice and ready to deploy and fight fires wherever needed in the province. Fire Chief Keith Stecko says they have five firefighters and a truck ready to go.
The town has also sent three Emergency Support Services personnel south to aid in the efforts.
to donate you can visit the Smithers Cares page here.