CFAR President’s Message – May 2016
May 8th, 2016 | Becky Kostka
To all our valued CFAR Society members,
This has been a stressful time for Albertans but never more so for our family, friends and loved ones living and working in and around Fort McMurray.
We’ve all seen the videos of people hastily escaping a burning community. These are unforgettable scenes of people escaping an escalating crisis. There’s additional uncertainty when the only escape route is blocked or closed. These people had very little notice to prepare and got out with their lives and few resources. We are all amazed of the stories of courage and resourcefulness to get to safety despite being unsure of the immediate future. We’ve also witnessed accounts of generosity from communities of Anzac (now evacuated as well), Lac La Biche, Grasslands and Edmonton. Now a large number of our Indigenous community members having lived in the Fort McMurray region are displaced.
We are encouraged by the outpouring of support by government, municipalities, services and businesses. The cooperation that many had seen in the fire at Slave Lake and the flood in Calgary is now being seen in a broader expanse throughout the province. First responders, either local or from other parts of the province and country ensure the safety of those fleeing and protect the infrastructure of the city amongst the brutal conditions.
There is now a great need for support for those who have been displaced in terms of accommodations, food, supplies, clean clothing and toiletries for instance. Our team at CFAR is putting together a list of resources for people who need assistance or are looking to volunteer, which you can find by visiting the following link: http://cfarsociety.ca/resources/2016-fire-relief/. We will continue to monitor the situation and update the page as necessary.
We have decided to host a fundraiser for Fort McMurray and area residents at our annual Conference. The gala evening on Wednesday, May 25th will include opportunities to support evacuees from the region. More information will be made available in the coming days.
In the meantime I ask that if there are questions or comments from our membership to the board of directors that you contact either me or one of my fellow Board members. This is your society and it is my hope that you see us as accountable to you and that we represent your interests.
Sincerely,
Todd