Vernon's reception centre for wildfire evacuees is at Kal Tire Place. (Vernon Matters photo)

By Pete McIntyre

reception centre

‘Outpouring of kindness’: Vernon plays vital role in assisting fire victims

Aug 20, 2023 | 3:30 PM

Vernon’s role in the wildfire crisis over the last few days has been to provide support and a place of refuge for the fire evacuees.

Since Thursday, Vernon has been welcoming and assisting residents from neighbouring communities who have been displaced from their homes. As of Saturday night (Aug. 19), the local emergency support services (ESS) reception centre had received and registered more than 500 evacuees.

Most residents who have registered in Vernon have come from the areas of West Kelowna, Westbank First Nation, Westside Road, Kelowna, and Lake Country; however, some residents have also travelled to Vernon from the Shuswap near the Bush Creek and Adams Lake fires.

“Words cannot properly express how grateful we are for the time and care our ESS volunteers have provided while helping neighbours in their greatest time of need,” Mayor Victor Cumming said.

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(Vernon Matters photo)

The city is thanking everyone who has helped serve in its reception centre.

“We have seen an immense outpouring of kindness and generosity, all while folks have been working very long hours, helping to navigate complex situations,” Cumming said. “On behalf of the City of Vernon, I’d like to thank each and every person who has been part of this emergency response. This has been a difficult time for many people and our volunteers have made a big and positive difference in many lives.”

A number of partner agencies have also provided staff, volunteers and resources to help serve the needs of evacuees at the reception center.

“We’d like to extend a big thanks for the pet care provided by the SPCA, food support for volunteers by the Salvation Army, evacuee support by BC Services, First Aid by St. John Ambulance, and Disaster Psychosocial Services by volunteers with the Provincial Health Services Authority,” Cumming added “And of course, thank you to our local accommodation providers, restaurants, stores and service providers who have helped fulfill the needs of evacuees for basic and critical resources.

The mayor said they’ve also seen a huge outpouring of kindness and help being offered throughout the community by local businesses, organizations, and individuals just wanting to give a helping hand wherever possible.

“Seeing this kind of response – which is common for Vernon – makes me incredibly proud to be your mayor.”

Cumming also thanked all the firefighters, emergency responders, and their agencies for their incredible efforts to protect communities and try to bring the fires under control, particularly while working in grueling conditions.

“Your efforts never go unrecognized,” he remarked.

The mayor added residents’ thoughts and prayers are with every single person, family, business, organization, and community who has been impacted by the devastating wildfires.

“Vernon is – and will continue to be – here to support you as best as possible, as we all face the continued impact of these events.”

by Pete McIntyre

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