Benefit concert raises $150,000 for Red Cross response in Slave Lake
By Nicole Farn
Wildfires have ravaged parts of the Town of Slave Lake and the surrounding communities, but they have not quelled the courage of local residents nor the generosity of Albertans wanting to help.
Tom Jackson’s June 15th benefit concert has raised nearly $150,000 in support of Red Cross response operations.
“The gift is in the giving,” said Jackson. “To all those who are involved with this labour of love and to all who have suffered, braved the dark night, and are waiting for the light, I hope this one candle will allow you to believe that you are not alone.”
The evening, hosted by CBC TV anchors Nirmala Naidoo and Mark Connolly, marked one month to the day since a wildfire forced the evacuation of 15,000 residents from the Town of Slave Lake and area. Though most residents have been able to return, they were met by a town left in partial ruin. Some residents now face not only a loss of homes and businesses, but also the rebuilding of their community which has been shaken by the devastation.
There was a feeling of unity in the sold-out crowd of 1,800 as performers including George Canyon, Johnny Reid, Emerson Drive and others donated their vocal talents in an effort to raise funds. Despite the event being rooted in tragedy, the outpouring of support and enthusiasm from both the performers and the audience gave Slave Lake residents a reason to smile.
“I am overwhelmed by the generosity of Tom Jackson, the performers, the CBC and all those involved,” said Red Cross Alberta Provincial Director Steve Armstrong. “The community spirit required for such an undertaking embodies the mission of the Canadian Red Cross. The Power of Humanity has certainly been revealed here.”
To help the Red Cross support the evacuees of this disaster, please contribute a financial donation by calling 1-800-418-1111, donating through www.redcross.ca, or by contacting at your local Red Cross office. Cheques should be made payable to the Canadian Red Cross, earmarked “Alberta Fires” and mailed to the Canadian Red Cross National Office, 170 Metcalfe Street, Suite 300, Ottawa, Ontario, K2P 2P2.
