Alberta Fires

Note: The following appeal is now closed.  You can support our ongoing work by donating to the Canadian Red Cross

 

Massive wildfires sweeping across parts of central and north-central Alberta have caused significant damage and forced the evacuation of dozens of communities, including the Town of Slave Lake and surrounding communities.  Approximately 7,000 people have been forced from their homes and it is estimated that half of the town has been destroyed, including the police station and many homes.

Canadian Red Cross Disaster teams responded immediately, mobilizing personnel and emergency supplies including hundreds of cots, blankets and personal hygiene supplies to assist evacuated families.  An emergency shelter and reception centre has been opened in Westlock, Alberta with additional operations established in the Town of High Prairie, Athabasca, and Edmonton, as multiple communities prepare to host families in need. The Canadian Red Cross is registering evacuees to help reconnect them with loved ones who may be looking for them and to refer them to other support and services they may need.

The fire continues to burn out of control and families in Alberta need immediate support.

How you can help

Canadians wishing to support the Canadian Red Cross Alberta Fires Response efforts are encouraged to contribute by calling 1-800-418-1111, donating through the website, or contacting their 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, 400 Cooper Street, Suite 8000, Ottawa, Ontario K2P 2H8.

The Canadian Red Cross is currently responding to the Alberta Fires as well as in other communities across western Canada who are experiencing disasters. Donations made to the Western Canada Severe Weather Fund, in support of the Alberta Fires, will be used in Alberta. Should donations exceed the needs in Alberta, Red Cross will continue to support families experiencing disasters in other regions across Western Canada.