World Renew Plans to Respond to Alberta Fires
Photo courtesy of Reuters.
A mandatory evacuation was in effect for the entire city of Fort McMurray, Alberta, population 88,000, during the first week of May 2016.
Rampant wildfires engulfed everything in its path, consuming homes, businesses, and forests. As of May 12, the fire has moved away from the city, but continues to blaze and has burnt an area of about 204,000 hectares (540,000 acres).
“We ask you to join World Renew in praying for the people of Fort McMurray and for the emergency personnel who are responding to this disaster,” said Ida Kaastra-Mutoigo, World Renew Canada Director.
As firefighters and first responders have worked to contain the flames, World Renew Disaster Response Services (DRS) has been monitoring the situation and connecting with local and provincial partners to determine how it can best be of assistance.
“Once it is safe to visit the area, we will be able to better coordinate our efforts and determine our first steps in recovery,” says Henry Visscher, World Renew DRS regional manager for Alberta.
It will take a long, coordinated effort between local officials, non-governmental organizations, and the provincial emergency agency to meet the needs of fire survivors.
"We worked very well in the months and years after the 2013 flood in High River, Alberta," said Visscher about World Renew's connections in Alberta. "This strengthened our relationships to one another and will only be an asset as we serve the individuals and families so devastated by these fires.”
For now, the Christian Reformed Church is doing its part by responding to the needs of those displaced by the fires. Trinity CRC in Edmonton held a prayer service on May 4 that included many displaced families. Several CRC members have also opened their doors to take in people who had nowhere else to go.
Your prayers and generous donations are also needed. Gifts marked "Alberta Fires 2016" will support the fire response efforts in the days, weeks, and years to come.
To give online click here.
If you would like to be alerted to volunteer opportunities as they arise, please sign up for the World Renew DRS monthly Opportunity Link here.
