Canadian Red Cross in Manitoba: We’re here to help
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Canadian Red Cross volunteer Heather Thompson. With her bright smile and comforting words, evacuated families in Manitoba are reassured that they are going to be okay. | |
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“In 2009 I was registering flood evacuees over the phone,” recalls Thompson. For the spring floods this year, Thompson is working in a City of Winnipeg reception centre meeting evacuees face-to-face.
“They come to my table and I ask them how they are doing. If there are children, I give them a small toy to help them feel better, then I take details from them as part of the registration process,” says Thompson. “I also answer questions on where to go for specific services, many of which are offered at the reception centre.”
On April 18, 2011, a young couple with a three-week-old baby registered with Thompson. “They had only two hours notice to evacuate. Their family and friends helped them pack up,” says Thompson. “They were in good spirits, even though they had never been evacuated before.”
Thompson registered the family and told them about next steps. She also eased their minds when she pointed them toward the pet reception area set up in the centre, as the family was concerned about their dogs and cats.
“My eyes tear up when I think about this work and I get a feeling in my heart,” says Thompson. “It feels good because people know that we’re here for them. They don’t have to worry that their basic needs won’t be taken care of because we’re here to help.”
Canadians who wish to support Canadian Red Cross flood response efforts in Manitoba are encouraged to donate. Click here for more information.
