As devastating wildfires continue to sweep across British Columbia, forcing more than 20,000 people from their homes and prompting a provincial state of emergency, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has committed $225,000 in emergency assistance to local organizations providing frontline services to affected individuals and families.
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Under the direction of the Canada Area Presidency, the Church is helping to address urgent humanitarian needs through emergency donations of $150,000 to the Salvation Army British Columbia Division, $50,000 to the Community Foundation North Okanagan (CFNO) and $25,000 to the Central Okanagan Food Bank (COFB). Together, these organizations are providing emergency shelter, food, supplies and emotional support to individuals and families impacted by the fires.
“Our hearts go out to all those affected by the wildfires,” said Elder M. Shayne Olsen, Area Seventy for the Church. “We are grateful for the opportunity to support the organizations dedicated to bringing aid and comfort to those in need during this difficult time.”
The Salvation Army is providing meals and distributing supplies to those impacted in the Okanagan region. Major Rick Zelinsky, territorial director of public affairs and emergency disaster services for the Salvation Army, said, “Our dedicated teams are on the ground providing practical assistance to evacuees and first responders, acting as a source of hope and comfort during one of the most stressful times in their lives. We remain committed to standing alongside British Columbians through every phase of this crisis, ensuring that no one has to face the aftermath of disaster alone.”
CFNO and the COFB are key partners in wildfire relief efforts. CFNO is helping secure housing and resources for displaced residents, while COFB continues to provide emergency food hampers and nutritional meals to thousands in need.
Leanne Hammond, executive director of CFNO, said, “As a trusted community charity for over 50 years, we have been called upon to receive donations and to aid in what will be both immediate and long-term recovery in our area. We are inspired to see the collective strength of people coming together to help each other at this challenging time.”
Elder Olsen emphasized that recovery efforts are strongest when communities, charitable organizations, faith groups and volunteers work together. “As British Columbians work toward recovery from this wildfire season, we are grateful for the many organizations and individuals serving those in need,” he said. “These relief efforts reflect our shared commitment to compassion, hope and resilience through Christlike service in the face of adversity.”
Those wishing to support local wildfire relief efforts can find volunteer opportunities through JustServe.org, a free volunteer platform that connects community members with local service needs and is sponsored by the Church.