Western Canada severe weather
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In the Manitoba First Nations communities of Peguis and Fisher River, severe thunderstorms in early July knocked out power lines, flooded communities, damaged approximately 300 homes and forced many families to evacuate. This is in addition to severe precipitation in May and June that caused overland flooding across multiple municipalities. The Canadian Red Cross estimates that 3,000 homes have been affected throughout the province. In response, Canadian Red Cross workers are distributing approximately 650 clean-up kits and connecting with individuals whose recovery needs are not covered by insurance or government assistance.
In Raymore and Kawacatoose, Saskatchewan, a tornado has destroyed over 20 homes and damaged municipal infrastructure, forcing many to evacuate from their homes. In Yorkton, Saskatchewan, torrential rain has impacted approximately 1,000 people, while approximately 70 communities across the province, including Maple Creek, continue to deal with the ongoing impact of overland flooding on basements, roads and other building infrastructure. In response to these emergencies, the Red Cross registered individuals forced to evacuate from their homes and provided emergency shelter for approximately 200 Yorkton evacuees. We are now distributing over 400 flood clean-up kits and providing ongoing assistance for basic needs.
In June, severe flooding in Cypress County, Alberta, including the City of Medicine Hat, damaged many homes and disrupted the lives of over 180 families. Communities continue to face significant cleanup operations while many are still unable to return home. In addition to clean-up supplies, Red Cross is providing over 40 households with recovery assistance, including financial help, household repairs and occupational needs.
Your support is needed
The Canadian Red Cross is accepting donations to help disaster-affected Canadians throughout western Canada as they recover from the effects of severe weather. Funds will support immediate needs like clean-up kits and groceries, as well as longer-term assistance such as helping the hardest hit families with recovery planning as they rebuild their lives.
How you can help
Canadians wishing to support the Canadian Red Cross severe weather response efforts are encouraged to contribute by calling 1-800-418-1111, donating through redcross.ca, or contacting their local Red Cross office. Cheques should be made payable to the Canadian Red Cross, earmarked “Western Canada Severe Weather” and mailed to the Canadian Red Cross National Office, 170 Metcalfe Street, Suite 300, Ottawa, Ontario, K2P 2P2.
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In-kind donations of food, clothing and other items, while well intentioned, are not the best way to help those in need. There are tremendous processing and transportation costs involved in shipping these items to beneficiaries. Local purchases of food and clothing are more culturally appropriate and effective. Red Cross supplies can be purchased in the immediate area, thereby reducing transportation costs. Cash transfers to the affected region provide the optimum flexibility to our Red Cross colleagues so they can meet the most urgent needs.
