The province of B.C. and the federal government will be matching Red Cross donations to those affected by wildfires.
The province will be matching donations received since July 3, when Red Cross’ British Columbia Fires Appeal began. The federal government will also be matching donations, meaning every $1 donated will become $3 to support those affected.
The donations will be matched up to $20 million and they need to be made to the British Columbia Fires Appeal fund for them to be matched, said a press release from the province Sunday.
The government says the COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the importance of working together in challenging times, and the wildfires are another opportunity.
“This is an incredibly challenging time for individuals and families facing tremendous loss in the Lytton area, as well as communities across the province that are facing the possibility of devastating wildfire impacts this summer,” said Pat Quealey, vice-president, B.C. and Yukon, Canadian Red Cross in the release. “The B.C. government’s announcement to match donations is very welcome news.”
The wildfire season this year began early, according to the release, and the hot dry weather is leaving some concerned about many communities in B.C.
“We know people in B.C. and across the country are concerned for those affected by the many current wildfires in our province and the threat of more, and want to find a way to help communities recover. Donating to the Red Cross is a great way to help,” said Katrine Conroy, Minister of Forests, Lands, Natural Resource Operations and Rural Development in the release.
The province will be matching donations until Dec. 31, 2021. Donations can be made online, by calling 1-800-418-1111, texting FIRES to 45678 or by contacting their local Canadian Red Cross office.
READ MORE: First look at devastation for Lytton, B.C., residents left homeless after wildfire
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