Graphic courtesy of the Columbia Shuswap Regional District
By Liam Verster
ESS Centre opens in Salmon Arm

Emergency Reception Centre open for Merritt evacuees in Salmon Arm

Nov 15, 2021 | 6:00 PM

The Columbia Shuswap Regional District has opened an Emergency Support Services (ESS) Reception Centre for Merritt area residents forced from their homes due to the flooding.

The Shuswap Emergency Program opened the ESS centre at the Prestige Harbourfront Resourt at 251 Harbourfront Dr. NE, and ESS volunteers will be at the site helping evacuees until 11 p.m. Monday night.

The reception centre will reopen Tuesday morning and will operate daily from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. until the site is no longer needed.

The Regional District noted that availability of commercial lodging in the area is limited, especially for people with pets, and encourages evacuees to make arrangements to stay with family or friends.

ESS provides short-term basic support to people impacted by disasters, and evacuees are advised to self-register online before going to a reception centre. It’s also noted that evacuees should bring any billet information with them when registering at a reception centre as additional supports or services may be supplied.

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