Revelstokians are springing into action to aid victims of fire-ravaged Slave Lake, Alberta.
Partners for Others and Joy for Tomorrow will be collecting donations for the victims of the wildfires. They are coordinating efforts through the Facebook event called Revelstokians helping out Slave Lake residents!
The ongoing blaze in Slave Lake has burned down nearly half the town, according to media reports. Slave Lake has a population of about 6,700 -- just a little bit smaller than Revelstoke.
"I have just talked to the admin at Edmonton Emergency Relief Services and they are completely overwhelmed at the enormity of this disaster," said event organizer Krista Carnegie in a Facebook post. "The number of people who have lost everything is beyond comprehension right now, and growing."
They are looking for a variety of donated items. See the list at the bottom of this story.
Donations can be dropped off at 740 Big Eddy Road this Saturday, May 21 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. It's in the industrial park just across the Big Eddy Bridge. Pick-up is also available for those who can't make it.
The charities will ship donations next week, and will make another shipment in June.
Volunteers are still needed to help out with the event. Call 250-837-8569 for info on the event.
As usual, Revelstokians are responding with open hearts.
"You guys rock. You have inspired me to collect items at the workplace," writes Darryll White on the event page.
"Hey Krista. I don't have any of that stuff but I could donate a couple men's and women's Society tees to give to people. Would that help?" posted Society Snow & Skate owner Karl Jost.
"Hey Krista and Raine – we can't attend, but we're taking a truck load of stuff to the Edmonton Crisis Centre!" wrote Adrianne Shepherd.
"They really need bags, back packs et cetera, as they are receiving goods but have no way of carrying them," writes Lisa Channell-Levesque.
Organizers are appealing for the following items:
- unopened toiletries
- toothpaste
- toothbrushes
- deodorant
- shampoo, soap
- feminine hygiene products
- unopened underwear – men's, women's, children's
- bedding including blankets and pillows in particular
- towels
- financial donations towards goods and getting the goods up there!