The past few weeks, Ontario has experienced one of the largest evacuations it has seen the past few decades – and the Canadian Red Cross has been there to help.
The threat of almost 100 forest fires and smoke forced the evacuation of approximately 3,000 people from several remote First Nations communities in Northern Ontario. The evacuees were flown to several host communities - including Sioux Lookout, Thunder Bay, Wawa, Dryden, Greenstone, Matachewan, Kapuskasing, Ottawa and Arthur – where Red Cross volunteers have been providing support around the clock. Volunteers registered evacuees and are helping to provide for immediate needs including transportation, shelter, cots, blankets, clothing and personal needs such as baby supplies and personal hygiene items.
With the threat of smoke and fires diminishing, the evacuees are starting to return home. However, the work of the Red Cross volunteers won’t soon be forgotten. Here’s a story from one of our volunteers Mike Cayouette from Hearst, currently stationed in Smiths Falls:
"On Monday, I had a really touching moment that reminded me why I was here. One of the evacuees was leaving, and suddenly stopped and got off his vehicle. He went directly to me, looked me straight in the eyes, shook my hand, and thanked me from his heart. He told me he wanted to personally thank me for taking care of his people and gave me a big hug. It brought a tear to my eye, and it is a moment that I will always cherish. "
Check out some photos of how the Red Cross has been helping below:
Ontario Premier Dalton McGuinty with Red Cross volunteers in Dryden, ON
Ontario Premier Dalton McGuinty speaks with Red Cross volunteers in Dryden, ON
Red Cross volunteer entertains children evacuated from their homes in Matachewan, ON