Saskatoon bands together to send supplies to Fort McMurray evacuees

The parking lot at Saskatoon's Stonebridge Walmart is a hive of activity today.

Two realtors have organized a donation drive that will send bottled water, clothes and non-perishable food to people forced from their homes in Fort McMurray.

"I think it was just seeing the need that was there," said realtor Paul Chavady.

"We felt this is something that we could do, and we figured this is something that we need to do. We're neighbours."

This isn't the first time Chavady and business partner Jerry Hallgrimson have done something like this. In 2013, the two filled up a semi-trailer full of supplies and sent it to help with the floods in Calgary.

"You'd be amazed," said Chavady. "

A semi-trailer can get pretty full. Last time around, we did about three-quarters of one, and there's no way to describe how much that was. It was a lot of stuff."

Personal connection

So far, many of the people who have come to donate have had a personal reason for doing so.

"(My cousin) works in Fort Mac and he lost his home there," said Camellea Konkin. "I know several people who live there and work there who were devastated by the fires. So, I just thought every little contribution would help."

Meanwhile, others had historic reasons for wanting to help out.

"When I was younger, we had a house burn down so I know all donations are appreciated," said Donna Sackville.

"Red Cross and Salvation Army were first on the scene when our house burned down, so I know how important it is."

Organizers said they don't want donations of used clothing or perishable food like produce. All of the donations will be distributed by the Edmonton Food Bank.

The semi will be set up at the Walmart parking lot from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. CST tonight.