Alberta News and Stories

Fort McMurray and Area Floods: One Year Update

- When spring flooding forced thousands to leave their homes in northern Alberta last year, seniors living in downtown Fort McMurray were hit hard.
Luana Bussieres, executive director of St. Aidan’s Society in Fort McMurray, says the organization is grateful for the support offered by the Red Cross to help seniors along their path to recovery after the flooding.
 

Ian Dalsin: Volunteering to get out from behind a computer

- Ian Dalsin works with computers for a living. So when he went looking for a volunteer role, he wanted something more hands on.

“I often get stuck behind a screen for extended periods of time,” says the Edmonton-based IT (information technology) consultant. “It’s nice to be able to step out and deal with people face to face.”

 

Five inspiring stories mark five years of resilience and progress after Alberta wildfires

- Disasters affect people in different ways, but it is clear that hope, gratitude and determination prevail in stories of the devastating 2016 wildfires in Fort McMurray and the surrounding region. There are many stories of people helping people in the region, but the five following stories showcase the power of humanity at its best.

Fort McMurray and Area Floods: One Year Update

- When spring flooding forced thousands to leave their homes in northern Alberta last year, seniors living in downtown Fort McMurray were hit hard. Luana Bussieres, executive director of St. Aidan’s Society in Fort McMurray, says the organization is grateful for the support offered by the Red Cross to help seniors along their path to recovery after the flooding.

Books for Kids: Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library returns to Fort McMurray thanks to Red Cross grant

- The Imagination Library is the brainchild of country singer and philanthropist Dolly Parton, who was inspired by her own father’s inability to read. In 1995, she started a literacy program for children. Today, the program operates in five countries, with 1.7 million books distributed each month.

Alberta volunteers awarded prestigious honour

- A dedicated emergency management volunteer, a passionate water safety instructor trainer and a loyal educator have received the highest award given by the Canadian Red Cross. The three Alberta volunteers were given the Order of Red Cross, which recognizes extraordinary people who have provided outstanding humanitarian service at home and abroad.

Alberta volunteers awarded prestigious honour

- A dedicated emergency management volunteer, a passionate water safety instructor trainer and a loyal educator have received the highest award given by the Canadian Red Cross. 

Winter in the Backcountry: Tips for being prepared

- While a day on snowshoes or skis is a great way to fend off cabin fever, it does come with some risks. Here are some tips for planning and packing for a safe winter excursion.

Community grant supports immigrant families with school supplies and more during COVID-19

- The Horn Youth Services Foundation in Edmonton, Alberta knew it had to find a way to support its community. “Like the rest of Canada, domestic violence is increasing in our community due to COVID-19,” said Khadar Jama, KULAN’s executive director. 
 KULAN successfully applied to the Canadian Red Cross and is now able to continue its programming for high-risk and low-income families.

From Alberta to Quebec: Helping in Long Term Care facilities

- When Claudine St-Jean saw the posting for people who could assist in Quebec long-term care facilities, she knew immediately she had to put her name forward.
“I had recently lost two family members to COVID-19 in Quebec,” Claudine explained.