Canadian Red Cross has been actively responding to this crisis since the fires started July 18th. Canadian Red Cross is working closely with provincial and municipal governments to assist fire evacuees. Canadian Red Cross has provided blankets and cots from out warehouse facility in the Kelowna area.
For residents who evacuated suddenly and without basic necessities, Canadian Red Cross provides comfort kits to meet basic hygiene needs for adults, children and infants.
Canadian Red Cross is in the process of assessing the needs of evacuees, and expects to provide fire recovery assistance to many of the affected households in the weeks and months ahead. Areas of key need include the replacement of household goods, extended lodging, basic home repairs as well as occupational needs.
In this emergency, the main role of the Canadian Red Cross in Southern Interior is to work with local authorities to assist with the provision of urgent needs. The Canadian Red Cross will begin focusing on recovery efforts as soon as possible.
The Kelowna Canadian Red Cross is currently recruiting volunteers to assist with this response as well as being part of a response and recovery ready team. The level of volunteer support required will depend on the needs of the community. We are looking for people to work in: Human Resources; Finance and Administration; Logistics; Planning; Public Affairs; Information Mangement; and Direct Client Service.
Requirements include: submitting to a criminal record check, filling out forms in a volunteer package and a 2-hour Red Cross Orientation/ Training session.
Orientation/Training sessions will be offered at #5- 1414 Hunter Court, Kelowna:
Thursday, July 23rd – 9 am- 11 am
Friday, July 24th – 9 am-11 am
Monday, July 27th – 9am -11 am
Tuesday, July 28th – 9am -11 am
We recommend that potential volunteers come at 8:30 to complete the paperwork. For more information or to attend a training session, call 763-1859 ext 205 between 8:30-4:30 pm daily or email bcsi@redcross.ca .