The Canadian Red Cross is one of the largest non-profit organizations in Canada, providing humanitarian aid both domestically and internationally. This past summer, the Canadian Red Cross rushed to the aid of the town of Lac-Mégantic in Quebec, where a train derailment led to an enormous fire.
The disaster at Lac-Mégantic occurred on July 6, 2013, when a train carrying crude oil went off its rails and crashed into the town center. An explosion was followed by a large fire, which engulfed the downtown.
Canadian Red Cross volunteers have rushed to provide aid during numerous emergencies and disasters in Quebec, but the outpouring of support for Lac-Mégantic was astounding. Thanks to the help of dedicated Canadian Red Cross workers, the National Society has met with 2,400 individuals impacted by this emergency. More than 14,000 vouchers and debit cards, which can be used for groceries, clothing and pharmaceuticals, have been distributed to those in need. Just as importantly, the Canadian Red Cross has raised $13 million in donations from Canadians and businesses to help the community.
Amid the disaster and grief, Canadian Red Cross volunteers' and Lac-Mégantic survivors' own personal stories of survival and courage have been inspiring.
Jérôme and Mrs. Lavallée
Mrs. Lavallée, a resident of Lac-Mégantic, was visiting a nearby relative when the train derailed. She heard an explosion and left the house to see what had happened. Immediately, she made her way to the emergency shelter, but as the fire grew, Mrs. Lavallée became concerned for her son, who she feared was among those who were missing. Unable to reach him the morning following the derailment and fires, she added his name to the list of missing persons.
The day of the derailment, Jérôme, a Red Cross emergency response volunteer, was responding to the crisis in Lac-Mégantic. In the night and morning that followed, he worked in the emergency shelter, helping survivors like Mrs. Lavallée. Jérôme was manning the shelter's reception desk the day following the accident when two men showed up asking for Mrs. Lavallée. They had news about her son - he was alive and well!
Emergencies like the one at Lac-Mégantic can sometimes overshadow good news, but Jérôme had experienced one of the great rewards of helping to reunite family in the wake of a disaster. Mrs. Lavallée recalls the great support and warmth of the Canadian Red Cross volunteers at the shelter, but she singles out Jérôme for the wonderful news he brought her.
Want to make a difference in your community and help the Canadian Red Cross respond to disasters like the one at Lac-Mégantic? Donate today!