B.C. residents who have been affected by this year’s devastating wildfire season will be getting some financial relief through donations made to the Canadian Red Cross over the course of the summer.
Donations to the Canadian Red Cross made by customers visiting BC Liquor Stores (BCLS) and BC Cannabis Stores (BCCS) have totalled over $1.45 million, which will go directly to assisting wildfire-impacted residents in need.
According to the B.C. government, this amount will be matched by both the Province and federal government, for a total exceeding $4.35 million.
“British Columbians have shown their sense of community and generosity by making donations to the Canadian Red Cross British Columbia Fires Appeal,” said Selina Robinson, Minister of Finance.
“These donations will now be matched by the provincial and federal government – every $1 donated will become $3 to support those affected by wildfires. These funds will support people and communities as they recover and rebuild.”
The Province says that the money will help the Canadian Red Cross support immediate and ongoing relief efforts in B.C. communities affected by wildfires.
A portion of the money will also be used to help support long-term recovery, resiliency and preparedness for future wildfires.
A BC Cannabis Store in Campbell River was identified as being one of the BCCS that raised the most money, totalling $8,631 in donations.
As for BC Liquor Stores, the store that raised the most funds was located in Penticton, with $46,261 donated.
“This summer, we’ve witnessed first-hand the devastation from the wildfires and our thoughts are with all those who lost their homes and had their lives disrupted,” said Blain Lawson, general manager and CEO of BC Liquor Distribution Branch (LDB).
“Once again, our customers have displayed overwhelming generosity and we are thrilled that the provincial and federal governments will be matching their donations. We are proud to be an official disaster partner of the Canadian Red Cross and are grateful to our employees for their incredible support of these important campaigns.”
Since 2003, BCLS customers and employees have raised nearly $4 million to help the Canadian Red Cross provide disaster relief for humanitarian crises at home and abroad.
CHEK News
