Fort McMurray gets record-breaking donations for relief campaign

by Morinville News Staff

The Government of Alberta is contributing $30.3 million to the Canadian Red Cross relief campaign for residents of Fort McMurray, monies that will match the funds already donated by Albertans since the devastating wildfires.

The government says the donations will “support the health and wellness of residents and the recovery of the local economy through targeted programs.”

“Our government has been standing with the people of Fort McMurray since the start of this disaster, and we will continue to support the region as it recovers and rebuilds,” Danielle Larivee, Vice-Chair of Alberta’s Wood Buffalo Ministerial Recovery Task Force and Minister of Municipal Affairs. “The generosity of Albertans and Canadians during this crisis was overwhelming. Our country truly pulled together to help Alberta in its time of need and our government will continue to work closely with the Canadian Red Cross to ensure the donations of Albertans are used to make a real difference in the lives of the people of Wood Buffalo as they recover from this devastating wildfire.”

The province’s matching contribution will hit three areas:

1/ Community partnership grants to local charitable,
non-governmental and Indigenous organizations to support the recovery of residents and the community.

2/ Relief for small business owners who need assistance recovering financially.

3/ Post-disaster supports, including funding for specific health initiatives and research activities to promote the long-term emotional and social well-being of residents affected by the wildfire.

Kent Hehr, Minister of Veterans Affairs and Associate Minister of National Defence, said the federal government is working closely with the province and municipality to provide resources and support to help this city rebuild its infrastructure and the small businesses that make up the heart of this community.

“We are committed to supporting Alberta and the local community during this period of rebuilding and recovery as we continue to be there for the people of Fort McMurray,” Hehr said.

Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo Mayor Melissa Blake said the community is “overwhelmed and thankful” for the support from individual Canadians and organizations across this country.

“As we approach 90 days since we safely evacuated nearly 90,000 residents, we want to thank Canadians, the Government of Canada, the Government of Alberta and the Canadian Red Cross for their tremendous support,” she said. “With their efforts, we continue to be safe, resilient and together.”

Financial donations are still being accepted by the Canadian Red Cross.

Print Friendly, PDF & Email

1 Comment

  1. Let’s hope the monies are used for the people of Fort Mac!! People from the Slave Lake fire said they never received any help!

Comments are closed.