Property near Westside Road destroyed by the White Rock Lake wildfire (photo by Liam Verster / Vernon Matters)

By Liam Verster

Up to $2,000 in support

Additional financial support available for wildfire evacuees

Aug 25, 2021 | 12:10 PM

The Canadian Red Cross, in partnership with the B.C. government, is providing financial support for British Columbians who were forced from their homes due to wildfires.

The Red Cross will provide financial assistance to eligible households in one of three ways:

• $2,000 to eligible B.C. households whose primary residence has been severely affected by the wildfires, based on information provided to Emergency Management B.C.
• $2,000 to households who were evacuated from the Lytton region
• $1,200 for households under mandatory Evacuation Orders for longer than 10 consecutive days during the 2021 wildfire season

“This year’s wildfire season has forced thousands of people from their homes in Indigenous communities and municipalities throughout British Columbia, and some no longer have a home to go back to,” said Mike Farnworth, Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General.

“These funds will provide a helping hand as people work through the extraordinary challenges that come with such a stressful and traumatic time.”

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The financial support can be accessed by registering with Red Cross at 1-800-863-6582.

“This summer has been devastating for the individuals, families and communities impacted by the evacuations and loss due to the wildfires,” said Pat Quealey, vice-president, B.C. and Yukon, Canadian Red Cross.

“Thanks to the Province of B.C. and the generosity of Canadians, the Canadian Red Cross is providing eligible households impacted by the fires with much needed financial assistance during this difficult time. Our teams will continue to work with provincial, local, and Indigenous governments and communities, to support people in British Columbia during this disaster and into recovery.”

This financial support will not affect the eligibility for other supports provided through the provincial Emergency Support Services program.