Red Cross launches an appeal for donations to help people affected by B.C. wildfires

Red Cross launches an appeal for donations to help people affected by B.C. wildfires
CHEK

File photo.

File photo.

With nearly 600 wildfires burning in B.C., and the province declaring a state of emergency, the Canadian Red Cross is appealing for donations to help people affected by this summer’s wildfire season.

“More than 3,000 people have already been evacuated from their homes this summer and there continue to be more than 560 wildfires burning across the province,” Canadian Red Cross Vice President for B.C. and Yukon Kimberley Nemrava said.

“With the donations from generous Canadians, the Red Cross will help ensure people are cared for now and as they start their recovery.”

The Red Cross says it is working with the province, local governments and First Nations leaders to plan how funds will be used to help those affected by the wildfires.

Donations can be made on the Canadian Red Cross website, by calling 1-800-418-1111, or by calling your local Canadian Red Cross office.

Ryan Turcot of the B.C. Wildfire Service says 24 new fires started Wednesday, all because of lightning.

Around 45 wildfires are burning on Vancouver Island with most on the North Island.

The Nanaimo Lakes fire continues as a wildfire of note at 182 hectares and is 50 per cent contained.

Officials say smoky conditions continue to complicate firefighting efforts and an air quality advisory remains in effect for all of Vancouver Island and much of B.C.

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