B.C. fires: Canadian Red Cross collecting donations for wildfire evacuees
'They may need personal items like false teeth or glasses that were lost,' says Red Cross director
As wildfires continue to scorch B.C., the Canadian Red Cross is working to support people who have been forced from their homes under threat of fire.
The regional branch is now collecting donations for the B.C. Wildfires 2015 fund to provide short and long-term assistance to evacuees.
- B.C. fires: Blazes near Oliver, B.C. partially contained, crews say
- Rock Creek fire devastation
- B.C. Fires: Province burns through wildfire budget again
"During the recovery phase, when the emergency phase is over and people are looking at getting back in their homes, we meet with each family and have a conversation around what they need to recover," said Kimberly Nemrava, Canadian Red Cross director for B.C. and Yukon.
"They may need work boots so they can get back to work. They may need personal items like false teeth or glasses that were lost.
"We can be very flexible in meeting the needs of the clients as well as providing some of the needs you would expect, like food, clothing and shelter."
How you can help
At least 30 properties and 11 other structures have been destroyed by the uncontained Rock Creek fire, last estimated to be roughly 37 square kilometres.
The regional authority lifted the the Testalinden Creek fire evacuation order on Monday, and residents in the Osoyoos and Oliver area can now return home.
To donate to the wildfire fund, visit the online page or call 1-800-418-1111.
"We can't do any of this work without people's support, and we so appreciate it," Nemrava said.
To hear the full interview with Kimberley Nemrava, listen to the audio labelled: Canadian Red Cross assists wildfire evacuees in B.C.