Red Cross Updates and Information
Here is the latest from the Red Cross....
Red Cross Contact Information: 780-849-8796
Red Cross Contact Information: 780-849-8796
Canadian Red Cross continues helping region recover from 2011 disaster with launch of Northern Alberta Wildfires Community Projects Fund
Additional $2 million fund to focus on community development and recovery
(Slave Lake, AB) April 16, 2012: The Canadian Red Cross is launching the Northern Alberta Wildfires Community Projects Fund that will provide $2 million in additional funding to groups in communities impacted by the 2011 northern Alberta wildfires and subsequent flooding. This initiative will assist community members to recover from the largest disaster in Alberta’s history.
“The scale of this disaster was massive,” said Kate Wood, volunteer chairperson of the committee. “But the response of Canadians across the country was equally as generous. In announcing this fund today, Red Cross is continuing to channel that goodwill and help affected communities through this long recovery process.”Funding may cover community development projects, community events or support in assisting individuals and families impacted by the wildfires. The fund focuses on projects initiated by groups of community members.To be considered for funding, a project must meet one of four objectives:
· Benefit members of communities affected by the 2011 Northern Alberta Wildfires and/or subsequent flooding;
· Assist with community resources or programs eliminated or affected by the wildfires;
· Address imminent health and/or safety problems related to the wildfires;
· Better prepare for future disasters.
A committee of volunteers, chaired by Kate Wood with members of the community, will manage the fund and will use set criteria in selecting proposed projects. The application deadline is May 31, 2012, with approved projects expected to be announced by the end of June 2012.
“As past president of the Canadian Red Cross, a veteran Red Cross volunteer with 30 years experience and her career as a lawyer, Kate brings a wealth of experience to this committee,” said Steve Armstrong, Alberta Provincial Director, Canadian Red Cross. “We look forward to her leadership and vision.”
Please consult the Northern Alberta Wildfires Community Projects Fund Guidelines for eligibility criteria at www.redcross.ca/slavelake or from the Red Cross office in Slave Lake. Application forms and guidelines are also available online or from the office.
Community development projects previously approved include $400,000 for rent and improvements for the interim Slave Lake library, supply of a new dishwasher for Centennial Daycare, and first aid kits, among many others. These investments were allocated from the overall donations and will not impact this new Community Projects Fund. For the full list of projects approved to date, see www.redcross.ca/slavelake.
The Canadian Red Cross also continues to provide support and recovery assistance to individuals and families who have been directly affected by the wildfires. For individuals who are experiencing financial or psychological hardship, please contact the Red Cross in Slave Lake to set up an appointment with a caseworker.
As part of the relief and recovery operation, Red Cross registered more than 16,000 people, distributed $770,000 in direct aid to 4,500 people, mobilized more than 350 volunteers and staff (57,000 hours to date), provided advocacy and psychological support, and invested in community projects to build resiliency. A permanent office in Slave Lake has also been established to continue with long-term recovery efforts and help prepare for future emergencies.
Donations received by the Red Cross for the Northern Alberta Wildfire fund total $5.5 million to date. All donations have gone directly to support the Northern Alberta Wildfires relief and recovery operation. Expenses include:
· $770,000 in direct aid (food, clothing, shelter, rent, utilities, mortgage payments, etc.)
· $400,000 for rent and improvements for Slave Lake interim library
· $529,000 for staff and volunteers
· $229,000 for Red Cross Slave Lake office and facility
· $815,000 for transportation and housing of aid workers
The balance of donations will be used for the Northern Alberta Wildfires Community Projects Fund ($2 million) with the remainder to support ongoing recovery operations of the Red Cross in Slave Lake.
The Canadian Red Cross is a member of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, which includes the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, the International Committee of the Red Cross and 187 National Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies. Our mission is to improve the lives of vulnerable people by mobilizing the power of humanity in Canada and around the world.
(Slave Lake, AB) April 16, 2012: The Canadian Red Cross is launching the Northern Alberta Wildfires Community Projects Fund that will provide $2 million in additional funding to groups in communities impacted by the 2011 northern Alberta wildfires and subsequent flooding. This initiative will assist community members to recover from the largest disaster in Alberta’s history.
“The scale of this disaster was massive,” said Kate Wood, volunteer chairperson of the committee. “But the response of Canadians across the country was equally as generous. In announcing this fund today, Red Cross is continuing to channel that goodwill and help affected communities through this long recovery process.”Funding may cover community development projects, community events or support in assisting individuals and families impacted by the wildfires. The fund focuses on projects initiated by groups of community members.To be considered for funding, a project must meet one of four objectives:
· Benefit members of communities affected by the 2011 Northern Alberta Wildfires and/or subsequent flooding;
· Assist with community resources or programs eliminated or affected by the wildfires;
· Address imminent health and/or safety problems related to the wildfires;
· Better prepare for future disasters.
A committee of volunteers, chaired by Kate Wood with members of the community, will manage the fund and will use set criteria in selecting proposed projects. The application deadline is May 31, 2012, with approved projects expected to be announced by the end of June 2012.
“As past president of the Canadian Red Cross, a veteran Red Cross volunteer with 30 years experience and her career as a lawyer, Kate brings a wealth of experience to this committee,” said Steve Armstrong, Alberta Provincial Director, Canadian Red Cross. “We look forward to her leadership and vision.”
Please consult the Northern Alberta Wildfires Community Projects Fund Guidelines for eligibility criteria at www.redcross.ca/slavelake or from the Red Cross office in Slave Lake. Application forms and guidelines are also available online or from the office.
Community development projects previously approved include $400,000 for rent and improvements for the interim Slave Lake library, supply of a new dishwasher for Centennial Daycare, and first aid kits, among many others. These investments were allocated from the overall donations and will not impact this new Community Projects Fund. For the full list of projects approved to date, see www.redcross.ca/slavelake.
The Canadian Red Cross also continues to provide support and recovery assistance to individuals and families who have been directly affected by the wildfires. For individuals who are experiencing financial or psychological hardship, please contact the Red Cross in Slave Lake to set up an appointment with a caseworker.
As part of the relief and recovery operation, Red Cross registered more than 16,000 people, distributed $770,000 in direct aid to 4,500 people, mobilized more than 350 volunteers and staff (57,000 hours to date), provided advocacy and psychological support, and invested in community projects to build resiliency. A permanent office in Slave Lake has also been established to continue with long-term recovery efforts and help prepare for future emergencies.
Donations received by the Red Cross for the Northern Alberta Wildfire fund total $5.5 million to date. All donations have gone directly to support the Northern Alberta Wildfires relief and recovery operation. Expenses include:
· $770,000 in direct aid (food, clothing, shelter, rent, utilities, mortgage payments, etc.)
· $400,000 for rent and improvements for Slave Lake interim library
· $529,000 for staff and volunteers
· $229,000 for Red Cross Slave Lake office and facility
· $815,000 for transportation and housing of aid workers
The balance of donations will be used for the Northern Alberta Wildfires Community Projects Fund ($2 million) with the remainder to support ongoing recovery operations of the Red Cross in Slave Lake.
The Canadian Red Cross is a member of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, which includes the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, the International Committee of the Red Cross and 187 National Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies. Our mission is to improve the lives of vulnerable people by mobilizing the power of humanity in Canada and around the world.
Red Cross is Rockin!
Canadian Red Cross Announces Funding for Interim Library in Slave Lake.
February 15, 2012 (Slave Lake): The Canadian Red Cross and the Town of Slave Lake are proud to announce funding for the interim Slave Lake Regional Library.
Mayor Karina Pillay-Kinnee said this project “means so much to the residents of Slave Lake and the surrounding communities. Before the wildfire, our library was a focal point for our community, people of all ages and backgrounds enjoyed the facility and the services it provided. Keeping library services available to the residents of northern Alberta represents another step in the recovery of our community.”
This project, which will see close to $400,000 provided for rent and renovation of the interim library location, will commence immediately and will provide funding until December 2013.
“The people of Slave Lake, the municipal district and the surrounding communities have come to rely on the library for information and entertainment; for some, the library provides their only access to a computer and to the internet. Funding the temporary space for the library fits with the commitment of the Red Cross to assist people in the community who have been affected by the fire. The library provides access and reduces stress for people needing to connect with resources and it also builds the economic and emotional capacity of those using the library’s services.” Said Sue Phillips, Western Zone Director General.
And here is there latest donor report for the Slave Lake and area wildfire funding: http://www.redcross.ca/article.asp?id=42096&tid=081
February 15, 2012 (Slave Lake): The Canadian Red Cross and the Town of Slave Lake are proud to announce funding for the interim Slave Lake Regional Library.
Mayor Karina Pillay-Kinnee said this project “means so much to the residents of Slave Lake and the surrounding communities. Before the wildfire, our library was a focal point for our community, people of all ages and backgrounds enjoyed the facility and the services it provided. Keeping library services available to the residents of northern Alberta represents another step in the recovery of our community.”
This project, which will see close to $400,000 provided for rent and renovation of the interim library location, will commence immediately and will provide funding until December 2013.
“The people of Slave Lake, the municipal district and the surrounding communities have come to rely on the library for information and entertainment; for some, the library provides their only access to a computer and to the internet. Funding the temporary space for the library fits with the commitment of the Red Cross to assist people in the community who have been affected by the fire. The library provides access and reduces stress for people needing to connect with resources and it also builds the economic and emotional capacity of those using the library’s services.” Said Sue Phillips, Western Zone Director General.
And here is there latest donor report for the Slave Lake and area wildfire funding: http://www.redcross.ca/article.asp?id=42096&tid=081
Canadian Red Cross marks six months since northern Alberta Wildfires on National Philanthropy Day.
November 14, 2011: Six months ago the Canadian Red Cross got the call to help with the evacuation of more than 15,000 individuals, the largest response the Red Cross has been involved with in Alberta. A team of seven went out to Athabasca and Westlock that night carrying more than 400 cots and 800 blankets. The Red Cross response has grown to include over 346 volunteers who have invested more than 45,000 hours. Since June 6, 2011, when the Red Cross entered the recovery phase of the northern Alberta wildfire operations:
$109,683.37 has been distributed to individuals and families for clothing.
$191,778.00 has been distributed for the purchase of food.
$233,062.95 has been distributed for household goods and lodging.
$26,817.08 has been distributed for occupational needs to help people get back to work.
$7,500.00 in school supplies has been provided for northern Alberta students who are attending pre-school through to post-secondary education.
2 the number of years the Canadian Red Cross has committed to being a part of the northern Alberta recovery efforts.
*Please note this is not a full accounting of expenditure which has taken place to date.
Steve Armstrong, the Provincial Director of the Canadian Red Cross – Alberta spoke about Red Cross efforts to date.
“In the past six months we’ve been extremely proud to be able to help the individuals and families who were affected by this disaster – from direct aid in the form of clothing, food and other essentials, to our community resiliency work where we help with things like stress management workshops and family activity nights, we are working with the community to do what we can to help the recovery process. We know this will be a long and difficult process. That’s why very early on in this disaster we committed to being in northern Alberta for at least two years. We’re even working on a permanent disaster response team in Slave Lake which will last well into the future.”
Tomorrow, Tuesday, November 15, 2011 at 2 pm, which is also National Philanthropy Day, the Canadian Red Cross will embark on another project, the delivery of more 350 first aid kits to all of the individuals and families who have moved into the new trailers in Slave Lake. The kits are a Red Cross housewarming gift as well as a chance to follow-up with each of the individuals who have been most impacted by the wildfires
$109,683.37 has been distributed to individuals and families for clothing.
$191,778.00 has been distributed for the purchase of food.
$233,062.95 has been distributed for household goods and lodging.
$26,817.08 has been distributed for occupational needs to help people get back to work.
$7,500.00 in school supplies has been provided for northern Alberta students who are attending pre-school through to post-secondary education.
2 the number of years the Canadian Red Cross has committed to being a part of the northern Alberta recovery efforts.
*Please note this is not a full accounting of expenditure which has taken place to date.
Steve Armstrong, the Provincial Director of the Canadian Red Cross – Alberta spoke about Red Cross efforts to date.
“In the past six months we’ve been extremely proud to be able to help the individuals and families who were affected by this disaster – from direct aid in the form of clothing, food and other essentials, to our community resiliency work where we help with things like stress management workshops and family activity nights, we are working with the community to do what we can to help the recovery process. We know this will be a long and difficult process. That’s why very early on in this disaster we committed to being in northern Alberta for at least two years. We’re even working on a permanent disaster response team in Slave Lake which will last well into the future.”
Tomorrow, Tuesday, November 15, 2011 at 2 pm, which is also National Philanthropy Day, the Canadian Red Cross will embark on another project, the delivery of more 350 first aid kits to all of the individuals and families who have moved into the new trailers in Slave Lake. The kits are a Red Cross housewarming gift as well as a chance to follow-up with each of the individuals who have been most impacted by the wildfires
Red Cross Office Moved, and Response to Negative Press
The Red Cross has moved their office to: #225, 2 Avenue NW. The Recovery Centre will be open from 9 am to 4 pm Monday though Saturday. To make an appointment with a caseworker, residents can call 780-805-8470. Red Cross continues to help the most vulnerable in the community as they move forward with their lives and build capacity to respond to this disaster. Help can include, but is not limited to: rent, mortgage payments, household goods, food, medical supplies and personal services.
Also, many of you may have read this: http://www.edmontonsun.com/2011/08/30/frustrated-in-slave-lake
Here is a response from the Red Cross to these concerns:
The Canadian Red Cross mission is to improve the lives of vulnerable people by mobilizing the power of humanity in Canada and around the world.
Clearly, the Northern Alberta Wildfires put many people, individuals and families, in a position of vulnerability. The role of the Red Cross is not to provide aid to all people, but rather to help those who are vulnerable, who do not have the resources to meet their basic needs.
How are people who are insured benefiting from Red Cross? The initial relief phase of the Red Cross response offered support to all affected persons to meet urgent and immediate needs, regardless of a person's capacity to meet those needs.
In the recovery phase, those with insurance can typically access necessary support through their insurance companies. However, if there are basic needs which are not being addressed by an insurer, individuals may meet with Red Cross caseworkers to discuss potential options. They may qualify for aid or Red Cross may be able to advocate on their behalf.
We know that some people in Slave Lake and the surrounding communities are fully insured and, generally, are not facing any unmet needs, while other may be partially insured or uninsured. The Red Cross does not make judgments about the people who request our assistance, whether we are working in Alberta, in other parts of Canada or around the world. Rather, the Red Cross mission and mandate is to help people who are vulnerable. All of our work is guided by our 7 Fundamental Principals which can be found on our website: http://www.redcross.ca/article.asp?id=34122&tid=001 . Our role is not to provide aid so that people can return to pre-disaster lifestyle, but rather to provide support to help those who cannot meet all of their basic needs without some assistance.
How has Red Cross supported the communities-at-large? As of July 11, 2011, Canadian Red Cross provided $1,000 to help cover the cost of the annual Town of Slave Lake Family Canada Day Celebrations, has contributed funding to help the town hire a summer student to run children’s recreation programs and, in early days of the return to the community, delivered about 120 boxes of diapers, hundreds of cases of juice and dozens of boxes of snack bars to the local day care centre for distribution to all families with children at the centre. Additionally, Red Cross has partnered with Slave Lake Victims Services to provide Coping with Stress workshops to dozens of local service industry employees who are dealing with their own personal disaster experiences while hearing daily, through the course of their employment, the stories of how the wildfires impacted their friends and neighbours.
While we don’t know yet what future broad-based community needs in Slave Lake and the surrounding area may be, here are some examples of aid provided to other jurisdictions following major disasters:
· Southern Manitoba Floods in 1997: A number of communities experienced major losses, including important community focal points. We met with and then subsequently worked with a few communities to rebuild these focal points, such as a community centre, swimming pool and a hockey rink.
· Lillooet, BC Fires in 2009: The water reservoir was left to be destroyed by the fire in order to save the community. To help the community through to the time that it could be re-supplied, Red Cross brought in a water tank that resided in the community for one month. This solution allowed community leaders to focus on the next steps to recover the water reservoir, rather than on how to provide residents with clean drinking water. This solution came from discussions between Red Cross, other agencies and community leaders.
· Maple Creek, Sask. Flooding in 2010: During the massive 2010 Southern Saskatchewan flooding, the community did not have the capacity to house all of the people who were displaced. One family owned an old summer cottage but it was in need of shingles. Red Cross paid to have the work done and the family had a place to live.
· Southern Alberta Floods in 2010: Residents impacted by flooding across Southern Alberta were trying to clean up their homes and properties as the flood waters receded. In meetings with individuals and Cyprus County leadership, we learned that people had no where to put the waste as it was collected. Red Cross provided large garbage dumpsters to residents who needed them, allowing for the cleanup to continue.
How much money has been donated to the Northern Alberta Wildfires disaster to date? As of August 31, donations received by generous individuals, governments and corporations across Canada to the Red Cross for the Northern Alberta Wildfire relief and recovery efforts total $3.7million.
How has donor money been spent to date? Since the Recovery work began June 6 roughly $320,000 has been spent in operation costs. This includes things such as office costs, phones, computers, accommodations for volunteers and staff (since July in a work camp, in trailers), meals, vehicle rentals, etc.
Since the response began major Red Cross spending on Direct Aid by the Alberta Wildfires Response and Recovery Team totals $324,246. The Government of Alberta is covering the costs Red Cross incurred related to family reunification and transitional housing from May 15 to June 30.
Major aid distribution by the Red Cross (excluding Government of Alberta reimbursement) includes:
$126,000 household goods
$125,000 food
$58,000 clothing
$17,000 occupational needs such as tools, work boots, coveralls
$12,000 emergency lodging
The total does not include donated goods and/or services such as a truckload of materials like water, juice boxes, diapers and snacks from Walmart, $46,000 worth of flights from WestJet to transport volunteers from across Canada to Alberta to help with the response in Slave Lake and surrounding communities or 42,000 hours of time donated by some 200 volunteers, which, based on $30 per hour, equal $1.26M.
Also, many of you may have read this: http://www.edmontonsun.com/2011/08/30/frustrated-in-slave-lake
Here is a response from the Red Cross to these concerns:
The Canadian Red Cross mission is to improve the lives of vulnerable people by mobilizing the power of humanity in Canada and around the world.
Clearly, the Northern Alberta Wildfires put many people, individuals and families, in a position of vulnerability. The role of the Red Cross is not to provide aid to all people, but rather to help those who are vulnerable, who do not have the resources to meet their basic needs.
How are people who are insured benefiting from Red Cross? The initial relief phase of the Red Cross response offered support to all affected persons to meet urgent and immediate needs, regardless of a person's capacity to meet those needs.
In the recovery phase, those with insurance can typically access necessary support through their insurance companies. However, if there are basic needs which are not being addressed by an insurer, individuals may meet with Red Cross caseworkers to discuss potential options. They may qualify for aid or Red Cross may be able to advocate on their behalf.
We know that some people in Slave Lake and the surrounding communities are fully insured and, generally, are not facing any unmet needs, while other may be partially insured or uninsured. The Red Cross does not make judgments about the people who request our assistance, whether we are working in Alberta, in other parts of Canada or around the world. Rather, the Red Cross mission and mandate is to help people who are vulnerable. All of our work is guided by our 7 Fundamental Principals which can be found on our website: http://www.redcross.ca/article.asp?id=34122&tid=001 . Our role is not to provide aid so that people can return to pre-disaster lifestyle, but rather to provide support to help those who cannot meet all of their basic needs without some assistance.
How has Red Cross supported the communities-at-large? As of July 11, 2011, Canadian Red Cross provided $1,000 to help cover the cost of the annual Town of Slave Lake Family Canada Day Celebrations, has contributed funding to help the town hire a summer student to run children’s recreation programs and, in early days of the return to the community, delivered about 120 boxes of diapers, hundreds of cases of juice and dozens of boxes of snack bars to the local day care centre for distribution to all families with children at the centre. Additionally, Red Cross has partnered with Slave Lake Victims Services to provide Coping with Stress workshops to dozens of local service industry employees who are dealing with their own personal disaster experiences while hearing daily, through the course of their employment, the stories of how the wildfires impacted their friends and neighbours.
While we don’t know yet what future broad-based community needs in Slave Lake and the surrounding area may be, here are some examples of aid provided to other jurisdictions following major disasters:
· Southern Manitoba Floods in 1997: A number of communities experienced major losses, including important community focal points. We met with and then subsequently worked with a few communities to rebuild these focal points, such as a community centre, swimming pool and a hockey rink.
· Lillooet, BC Fires in 2009: The water reservoir was left to be destroyed by the fire in order to save the community. To help the community through to the time that it could be re-supplied, Red Cross brought in a water tank that resided in the community for one month. This solution allowed community leaders to focus on the next steps to recover the water reservoir, rather than on how to provide residents with clean drinking water. This solution came from discussions between Red Cross, other agencies and community leaders.
· Maple Creek, Sask. Flooding in 2010: During the massive 2010 Southern Saskatchewan flooding, the community did not have the capacity to house all of the people who were displaced. One family owned an old summer cottage but it was in need of shingles. Red Cross paid to have the work done and the family had a place to live.
· Southern Alberta Floods in 2010: Residents impacted by flooding across Southern Alberta were trying to clean up their homes and properties as the flood waters receded. In meetings with individuals and Cyprus County leadership, we learned that people had no where to put the waste as it was collected. Red Cross provided large garbage dumpsters to residents who needed them, allowing for the cleanup to continue.
How much money has been donated to the Northern Alberta Wildfires disaster to date? As of August 31, donations received by generous individuals, governments and corporations across Canada to the Red Cross for the Northern Alberta Wildfire relief and recovery efforts total $3.7million.
How has donor money been spent to date? Since the Recovery work began June 6 roughly $320,000 has been spent in operation costs. This includes things such as office costs, phones, computers, accommodations for volunteers and staff (since July in a work camp, in trailers), meals, vehicle rentals, etc.
Since the response began major Red Cross spending on Direct Aid by the Alberta Wildfires Response and Recovery Team totals $324,246. The Government of Alberta is covering the costs Red Cross incurred related to family reunification and transitional housing from May 15 to June 30.
Major aid distribution by the Red Cross (excluding Government of Alberta reimbursement) includes:
$126,000 household goods
$125,000 food
$58,000 clothing
$17,000 occupational needs such as tools, work boots, coveralls
$12,000 emergency lodging
The total does not include donated goods and/or services such as a truckload of materials like water, juice boxes, diapers and snacks from Walmart, $46,000 worth of flights from WestJet to transport volunteers from across Canada to Alberta to help with the response in Slave Lake and surrounding communities or 42,000 hours of time donated by some 200 volunteers, which, based on $30 per hour, equal $1.26M.
Canadian Red Cross provides funding to students returning to school in September
(Alberta) August 25, 2011: Canadian Red Cross is providing funding to help students from Kindergarten to university affected by the Northern Alberta Wildfires purchase essential school supplies for the school year.
Approximately 1900 students will return to school in September in the Town of Slave Lake and surrounding communities, and will be in need of school supplies. Red Cross will be distributing Walmart gift cards to help parents and students purchase supplies such as books, binders, pens and backpacks. Residents in need of assistance are encouraged to make an appointment with the Red Cross Recovery Centre. This funding is available to anyone within the community of Slave Lake and surrounding areas who is struggling with the added burden of costly school supplies.
Canadian Red Cross has committed to being a presence in Slave Lake and area for the next two years providing support services to residents of the town and other surrounding communities. As of August 28, Red Cross Recovery Centre in Slave Lake will be in a new, permanent location at #225, 2 Avenue NW. The Recovery Centre will be open from 9 am to 4 pm Monday – Saturday. To make an appointment, residents can call 780-849-8796.
Approximately 1900 students will return to school in September in the Town of Slave Lake and surrounding communities, and will be in need of school supplies. Red Cross will be distributing Walmart gift cards to help parents and students purchase supplies such as books, binders, pens and backpacks. Residents in need of assistance are encouraged to make an appointment with the Red Cross Recovery Centre. This funding is available to anyone within the community of Slave Lake and surrounding areas who is struggling with the added burden of costly school supplies.
Canadian Red Cross has committed to being a presence in Slave Lake and area for the next two years providing support services to residents of the town and other surrounding communities. As of August 28, Red Cross Recovery Centre in Slave Lake will be in a new, permanent location at #225, 2 Avenue NW. The Recovery Centre will be open from 9 am to 4 pm Monday – Saturday. To make an appointment, residents can call 780-849-8796.
If you are a flooding victim....
When flooding hit the Slave Lake area, Red Cross provided food, clothing and shelter as we would in any personal disaster for 72 hours. If there are individuals or families who has been affected by flooding and are still in need assistance we encourage them to contact the Red Cross recovery office and make an appointment with a caseworker. A needs assessment will be done and this way we can identify if we can provide them with any assistance.
If you are aware of any individuals or families in this situation please encourage them to contact the Recovery Center 780-849-8796
If you are aware of any individuals or families in this situation please encourage them to contact the Recovery Center 780-849-8796
Walmart Canada and Canadian Red Cross Kick Off Annual Campaign in Slave Lake
(Edmonton) August 3, 2011: Walmart Canada and the Canadian Red Cross are launching their 8th annual cross-country campaign to raise much-needed funds for Canadian Red Cross disaster preparedness and response activities. The campaign will run in Walmart stores across the country from August 4 to 31, with an national goal of $2.8 million.
In Alberta we are kicking off this important campaign in Slave Lake so we can celebrate our successes and recognize the amazing support Walmart has provided to the Red Cross for the people of Slave Lake and the surrounding areas; items like: water, food, clothing, diapers, snacks and more.
“Walmart has been a great partner, especially this year,” says Andres Gutierrez, Community Relations with the Canadian Red Cross – Alberta. “They helped not only during the Wildfires response, but also help when Red Cross responds to the needs of the most vulnerable here in Alberta.”
A community barbeque will be held at the Walmart store in Slave Lake and Canadian Red Cross will also be hosting an event to teach disaster preparedness skills, promote public awareness and have fun! Participants will be given 30 minutes to scour the entire Walmart store and gather items they feel are essential for an emergency preparedness kit. Local Red Cross staff and volunteers and special guests will be on-site taking part in this event.
What: Walmart Canada and Canadian Red Cross annual fundraiser kick-off and barbeque
Where: Slave Lake Walmart store (#601, 1500 Main Street SW)
When: August 4th, 2011 from 12:30 p.m -1:30 p.m.
Supporting the Red Cross during this national campaign is simple: at the Walmart checkout, Walmart associates will give customers the opportunity to make a donation to support the work of the Canadian Red Cross in communities across the country. At the end of the campaign, Walmart will match the amount raised at each store, up to $2,000. Last year, Albertans generously donated $396,454 to the campaign!
Beyond their financial contributions, Red Cross blankets are supplied by Walmart and Walmart contributes at least $100,000 worth of gift cards to the Red Cross every year. Walmart’s support has enabled Red Cross to respond efficiently to disasters across the province allowing Red Cross volunteers to donate over 40,000 hours to Alberta disasters.
Walmart Canada is the largest corporate partner of the Canadian Red Cross, and the relationship is the largest corporate partnership of any Red Cross Society in the world. In 2010-2011, Walmart raised and donated $3 million, and has contributed over $16 million to Red Cross disaster response since 2003.
In Alberta we are kicking off this important campaign in Slave Lake so we can celebrate our successes and recognize the amazing support Walmart has provided to the Red Cross for the people of Slave Lake and the surrounding areas; items like: water, food, clothing, diapers, snacks and more.
“Walmart has been a great partner, especially this year,” says Andres Gutierrez, Community Relations with the Canadian Red Cross – Alberta. “They helped not only during the Wildfires response, but also help when Red Cross responds to the needs of the most vulnerable here in Alberta.”
A community barbeque will be held at the Walmart store in Slave Lake and Canadian Red Cross will also be hosting an event to teach disaster preparedness skills, promote public awareness and have fun! Participants will be given 30 minutes to scour the entire Walmart store and gather items they feel are essential for an emergency preparedness kit. Local Red Cross staff and volunteers and special guests will be on-site taking part in this event.
What: Walmart Canada and Canadian Red Cross annual fundraiser kick-off and barbeque
Where: Slave Lake Walmart store (#601, 1500 Main Street SW)
When: August 4th, 2011 from 12:30 p.m -1:30 p.m.
Supporting the Red Cross during this national campaign is simple: at the Walmart checkout, Walmart associates will give customers the opportunity to make a donation to support the work of the Canadian Red Cross in communities across the country. At the end of the campaign, Walmart will match the amount raised at each store, up to $2,000. Last year, Albertans generously donated $396,454 to the campaign!
Beyond their financial contributions, Red Cross blankets are supplied by Walmart and Walmart contributes at least $100,000 worth of gift cards to the Red Cross every year. Walmart’s support has enabled Red Cross to respond efficiently to disasters across the province allowing Red Cross volunteers to donate over 40,000 hours to Alberta disasters.
Walmart Canada is the largest corporate partner of the Canadian Red Cross, and the relationship is the largest corporate partnership of any Red Cross Society in the world. In 2010-2011, Walmart raised and donated $3 million, and has contributed over $16 million to Red Cross disaster response since 2003.
***Updated - Q & A with the Red Cross
| Answeing Questions on the Fire Aid |
And below is a two-month donor report with information on how funds are being used to help families and individuals.
| July 2011 Donor Report |
Canadian Red Cross Assisting with Flood Relief in Slave Lake.
(Alberta) July 8, 2011: The Canadian Red Cross is responding to the flooding situation in Slave Lake and surrounding communities in Northern Alberta. Officials with the Red Cross Personal Disaster Assistance Team (PDAT) are responding to the immediate needs of the individuals and families who have been affected. PDAT will provide the temporarily homeless individuals with essentials such as shelter, food, clothing, and hygiene kits for the next 72 hours.
The Red Cross Disaster Assistance Team was already assisting in Slave Lake and surrounding communities to provide assistance to those affect after the devastating May 15, 2011 wildfires.
Individuals needing assistance should go to the Daycare Centre at Northern Lakes College in Slave Lake or call 1-888-800-6493.
Additional Canadian Red Cross staff and volunteers are on stand-by if the situation becomes more severe. The Canadian Red Cross is working with the Town of Slave Lake to determine any needs residents may have.
All Canadian Red Cross support is provided at no charge to those in need. To donate to the Canadian Red Cross please call 1-800-418-1111 or go online to http://www.facebook.com/l/7AQDPLnOOAQAkY7VWPk8RwwM82lPLTBHJUVpJ3q--jdcGmA/www.redcross.ca.
The Red Cross Disaster Assistance Team was already assisting in Slave Lake and surrounding communities to provide assistance to those affect after the devastating May 15, 2011 wildfires.
Individuals needing assistance should go to the Daycare Centre at Northern Lakes College in Slave Lake or call 1-888-800-6493.
Additional Canadian Red Cross staff and volunteers are on stand-by if the situation becomes more severe. The Canadian Red Cross is working with the Town of Slave Lake to determine any needs residents may have.
All Canadian Red Cross support is provided at no charge to those in need. To donate to the Canadian Red Cross please call 1-800-418-1111 or go online to http://www.facebook.com/l/7AQDPLnOOAQAkY7VWPk8RwwM82lPLTBHJUVpJ3q--jdcGmA/www.redcross.ca.
An Interview with the Red Cross July 7, 2011
Foreword
I would like to point out the Red Cross give 90% of donations back to the community/cause that they were earmarked for. Upon researching online numerous charity investigation sites and reading through financial reports, the Red Cross IS accountable for each and every dollar of donation money. Please do not confuse them with the American Red Cross, which
has in recent years come under much scrutiny over their donation practices and how funds are given out.
Also, all of the answers to the below submitted questions are straight from the Red Cross. If your question did not appear, it is because it was answered by another persons question. Also at the end of this article, important contact information and a foundation not disclosing funds collected...
In terms of the Canadian Red Cross, their main goal in Slave Lake and MD #124 is to meet the “unmet needs” of residents. This comes in the form of groceries, help paying bills – and all in voucher form. The Red Cross does not give out cash. When doing an assessment, there are National Guidelines they have to follow including an interview that lasts around an hour and a lengthy questionnaire. A thorough investigation/look at each individual and individual families income sources, insurance and resources are looked into not only to make sure no one can cheat the system or get help that they are already receiving, but to ensure those who are asking for one thing, like a fridge voucher, are not still left with unmet needs, like needing money to fill their new fridge with groceries.
Please keep in mind the National Guidelines. They determine needs. If you had say 2 freezers before, you may only get a voucher for one. Because you may need one, but two could be considered a want more than a need. The Red Cross is trying to fulfill the needs of all 15,000 affected people.
Their resources are there for the insured, and uninsured, and the at the end of the day, to bridge the gap that people are
falling into where they have needs that are still not being met by their insurance company, the Alberta Government or another agency. They are not there to double up on help, so if another place is offering assistance, that is where
they will send you.
In terms of housing, this is THE MOST popular question of them all. The Red Cross is facilitating putting people in hotels, but they are not paying for it. The Alberta Government has decided that the deadline is July 7th and has not extended that deadline. The Red Cross “does not want to see anyone without a place to stay.” Basically, the government gives them a name and a hotel name, and we match the people up with their hotel. The Red Cross has been asking that if you are comfortable, you are encouraged to stay with friends and family. Again, the Alberta Government is running the housing program and making the decisions. (Authors Note- If you have concerns, you should not only phone the Housing Authority, but voice them to your MLA. And more importantly, your MP - who is a part of the federal government who promised financial aid to Slave Lake but has yet to give any.)
Below are some questions that were sent into me by email, through facebook and other ways as well. If you have further questions and need them answers, or are still having trouble with the Red Cross and need more help or want me to put you in touch with someone about your individual situation and the problems you are having, please feel free to contact me.
Q. All people who lost their homes are getting money vouchers for grocery shopping: A family of 5 shopping with a Red Cross voucher for $500 (one week grocery). Ok, this family lost their rented or low income house but they're still receiving their monthly cheques. So free housing and shopping on top of the GOV money.....is this fair or what !!!??????
A. If they’re received a voucher, it’s because the Red Cross has gone through the national guidelines to determine if they need help. If there is a deficit in the assistance they are recieving and the Red Cross determines through those guidelines that they cannot meet their needs, the Red Cross will step in. The family might have a government cheque, but if it does not cover all expenses, there are still unmet needs.
Q. Red Cross needs to go to the communities that were evacuated again to ensure everyone that is need of fridges/ Freezers are given that opportunity, many have no transportation & people who work shift work are being left out, I'm speaking for Gift Lake.
A. The outreach team is going out to the outlying communities. Outreach teams are going to those who cannot make it to Slave Lake and they are sending caseworkers out. If people are concerned in those communities, they must contact the Red Cross. Community members and officials have been very helpful in most communities getting their residents the help they need.
Q. Hey Angie! People have already told you this I'm sure but the big concern is that they are turning away insured people!
They say it is based on need, but we want to know if they are telling the people who donate the money that!
A. Need is determined by assessment – it takes one hour, goes into detail so they can be sure no needs are unment. They are looking at where needs lie. We (The Red Cross) don’t tell you what your needs are, you tell us what your needs are. If
the government or another charity has that service, we refer you there; we don’t want to double up on efforts but don’t want anyone to be vulnerable during this situation. If your insurance company is meeting all your needs and expenses, than you do not have “unmet needs.” One example that was shared with me by the Red Cross is that if you have a mortgage, car payment, loan payment, bills, and are also paying for your daughters apartment for college in Edmonton, if you
insurance company covers everything but that apartment, that is an unmet need they can help you with.
Q. Sad to say, but isn’t it our own responsibility to have insurance? Be it home insurance if you own your home or
contents insurance if you’re a tenant? If insurance doesn’t cover the incident, whatever it may be, then I understand a charity or the government helping out but we each need to safeguard ourselves before we expect help from others.
A. We absolutely don’t turn a blind eye to the uninsured or insured. Ex. If your insurance company gives you a lump sum and you are carrying “x” amount of expenses and the insurance cannot meet all those payments, you have an unmet need. We don’t want anyone stretched beyond having to choose which payment to make and not make. Whether you have it
or not we can help you. If your insurance is covering everything, all your needs, you do not have unmet needs and have things taken care of so the Red Cross wouldn’t be needed.
Q. Hi Angie, I was wondering if you could ask them if they changed their process for receiving new fridges? We did not
have insurance and were very lucky and only lost two fridges, a freezer and did our own cleaning. We did however not make any income while we were evacuated and had obligations to take care of. We took the last bit of money and charged the
rest for a new fridge..we then found out the Red Cross was giving vouchers to help. We went to see them and was told so sorry but you already bought a fridge and was not eligible. It sucks because we had to charge it to a credit card. Do you know of any changes to this procedure of giving out vouchers for fridges? Thanks
A. If you are in a hardship situation because of the fridge and need other items, if you now don’t have grocery money to fill that fridge with food, they can help you with that. In terms of taking that fridge back, getting a refund, than trying to get a
voucher, the Red Cross cannot do that. If the credit balance that you now owe is hurting you and you cannot pay bills, get groceries, etc because of it, the Red Cross can help you. Also, if you need to replace the freezer and did not get that yet and need it, again, unmet need.
A couple other notes from the Red Cross:
- Currently the Slave Lake Wildfires donation fund sits at approx. 3 million dollars.
- Right now they have a preliminary budget in place and the average family that they help gets $7500 dollars in total. Right now they have approx. 3 million dollars in donation money. Multiply that by the 15, 000 affected residents/families, and that is $112, 500, 000.00 needed to help everyone out. So in taking such a thorough process in assessing who needs what and who doesn’t need, they can be sure those funds are given to those with unmet needs, as opposed to those who
want “their fair share” of the donation money. Keep in mind this assistance is not in cash, but in vouchers. If they were to divide it fair and square right now, families who needed help or not would be getting approx. $200.00.
- There are 15, 000 people they are assisting between all affected communities
- Hunting meat = few thousand dollars worth of meat, also an unmet need. If you were a hunter, with insurance or not, house burned down or not, this can still mean an unmet need for you and/or your family.
- The Red Cross isn’t just directly helping the people who lost homes, but who were evacuated as well. Keep in mind the hundreds of dollars that would be needed to replenish freezers and fridges.
- If you are concerned about how funds were managed, watch for the public budget will come out at the end of the year. Right now they are operating on a preliminary budget that isn’t and will not be made public. (I have asked that they put these
statements into graph form as a special “Slave Lake Financial Report” so we financial non-gurus and those who don’t know how to read financial statements can understand the report. No confirmation on whether this can be done or not)
- Currently the Red Cross is still seeing about 50 people a day. Keep in mind most of the people with the Red Cross who are at the College, are volunteers from all over Canada, and are there to help you. If you feel your needs are not being met, again contact me, and I can try to help you! Also, the Red Cross will be doing follow ups, assessing winter needs, etc.
Authors Note:
Funds that were donated to the Grande Prairie Community Foundation and the Edmonton Community Foundations have yet to be disclosed. Upon phoning the Grande Prairie Community Foundation and speaking with Tracey Vavrek, Executive Director, I was left with a "no comment" and "I cannot comment to that" in terms of how much money was collected. They have also said that it is confidential to protect their donors as to how much money they have in their fund. Yet the Red Cross does disclose how much has been collected so far. If you would like to inquire as a citizen or person who did donate to these foundations, contact:
Edmonton Foundation Media Contact: Martin Garber-Conrad,
Chief Executive-Officer
(780) 426-0015 or martin@ecfoundation.org
or
Tracey Vavrek, Executive Director, Community Foundation of Greater Grande Praire
(780) 538-2820 or tracey@buildingtomorrowtoday.com
Important Contact Information:
Ms. Pearl Calahasen (PC) - MLA for Lesser Slave Lake
High Prairie
P.O. Box 598 5001 - 49 Street High Prairie, AB
Canada T0G 1E0
Phone: (780) 523-3171 Phone: (780) 849-3479 (Slave Lake)
Toll-Free: 1-866-625-0648
Fax: (780) 523-5150
lesser.slavelake@assembly.ab.ca
Slave Lake
3, 221 3rd Avenue Slave Lake, AB Canada T0G 1E0
Phone: (780) 849-3479
Fax: (780) 849-9633
Brian Jean, MP (Keep in mind under the heading Riding News on his website, there is NO information on Slave Lake, the wildfires or assistance promised. And unlike Pearl - have you seen him at any meetings lately?)
Fort McMurray Constituency Office
102 9912 Franklin Ave
Fort McMurray, Alberta T9H 2K5
Tel: (780) 743-2201 Fax: (780) 743-2287
Toll Free (Alberta only) 1-877-532-6272
E-mail: brian.jean.c1@parl.gc.ca
Athabasca Constituency Office
5101, 50th Avenue Athabasca, Alberta T9S 1T2
Tel: (780) 675-8100 Fax: (780) 675-4017
Toll Free (Alberta only) 1-877-710-8100
Email: brian.jean.c2@parl.gc.ca
Ottawa Office
Tel: (613) 992-1154
Fax: (613) 992-4603
Email: brian.jean@parl.gc.ca
Slave Lake Housing Authority Call Centre
(780) 849-8681
I would like to point out the Red Cross give 90% of donations back to the community/cause that they were earmarked for. Upon researching online numerous charity investigation sites and reading through financial reports, the Red Cross IS accountable for each and every dollar of donation money. Please do not confuse them with the American Red Cross, which
has in recent years come under much scrutiny over their donation practices and how funds are given out.
Also, all of the answers to the below submitted questions are straight from the Red Cross. If your question did not appear, it is because it was answered by another persons question. Also at the end of this article, important contact information and a foundation not disclosing funds collected...
In terms of the Canadian Red Cross, their main goal in Slave Lake and MD #124 is to meet the “unmet needs” of residents. This comes in the form of groceries, help paying bills – and all in voucher form. The Red Cross does not give out cash. When doing an assessment, there are National Guidelines they have to follow including an interview that lasts around an hour and a lengthy questionnaire. A thorough investigation/look at each individual and individual families income sources, insurance and resources are looked into not only to make sure no one can cheat the system or get help that they are already receiving, but to ensure those who are asking for one thing, like a fridge voucher, are not still left with unmet needs, like needing money to fill their new fridge with groceries.
Please keep in mind the National Guidelines. They determine needs. If you had say 2 freezers before, you may only get a voucher for one. Because you may need one, but two could be considered a want more than a need. The Red Cross is trying to fulfill the needs of all 15,000 affected people.
Their resources are there for the insured, and uninsured, and the at the end of the day, to bridge the gap that people are
falling into where they have needs that are still not being met by their insurance company, the Alberta Government or another agency. They are not there to double up on help, so if another place is offering assistance, that is where
they will send you.
In terms of housing, this is THE MOST popular question of them all. The Red Cross is facilitating putting people in hotels, but they are not paying for it. The Alberta Government has decided that the deadline is July 7th and has not extended that deadline. The Red Cross “does not want to see anyone without a place to stay.” Basically, the government gives them a name and a hotel name, and we match the people up with their hotel. The Red Cross has been asking that if you are comfortable, you are encouraged to stay with friends and family. Again, the Alberta Government is running the housing program and making the decisions. (Authors Note- If you have concerns, you should not only phone the Housing Authority, but voice them to your MLA. And more importantly, your MP - who is a part of the federal government who promised financial aid to Slave Lake but has yet to give any.)
Below are some questions that were sent into me by email, through facebook and other ways as well. If you have further questions and need them answers, or are still having trouble with the Red Cross and need more help or want me to put you in touch with someone about your individual situation and the problems you are having, please feel free to contact me.
Q. All people who lost their homes are getting money vouchers for grocery shopping: A family of 5 shopping with a Red Cross voucher for $500 (one week grocery). Ok, this family lost their rented or low income house but they're still receiving their monthly cheques. So free housing and shopping on top of the GOV money.....is this fair or what !!!??????
A. If they’re received a voucher, it’s because the Red Cross has gone through the national guidelines to determine if they need help. If there is a deficit in the assistance they are recieving and the Red Cross determines through those guidelines that they cannot meet their needs, the Red Cross will step in. The family might have a government cheque, but if it does not cover all expenses, there are still unmet needs.
Q. Red Cross needs to go to the communities that were evacuated again to ensure everyone that is need of fridges/ Freezers are given that opportunity, many have no transportation & people who work shift work are being left out, I'm speaking for Gift Lake.
A. The outreach team is going out to the outlying communities. Outreach teams are going to those who cannot make it to Slave Lake and they are sending caseworkers out. If people are concerned in those communities, they must contact the Red Cross. Community members and officials have been very helpful in most communities getting their residents the help they need.
Q. Hey Angie! People have already told you this I'm sure but the big concern is that they are turning away insured people!
They say it is based on need, but we want to know if they are telling the people who donate the money that!
A. Need is determined by assessment – it takes one hour, goes into detail so they can be sure no needs are unment. They are looking at where needs lie. We (The Red Cross) don’t tell you what your needs are, you tell us what your needs are. If
the government or another charity has that service, we refer you there; we don’t want to double up on efforts but don’t want anyone to be vulnerable during this situation. If your insurance company is meeting all your needs and expenses, than you do not have “unmet needs.” One example that was shared with me by the Red Cross is that if you have a mortgage, car payment, loan payment, bills, and are also paying for your daughters apartment for college in Edmonton, if you
insurance company covers everything but that apartment, that is an unmet need they can help you with.
Q. Sad to say, but isn’t it our own responsibility to have insurance? Be it home insurance if you own your home or
contents insurance if you’re a tenant? If insurance doesn’t cover the incident, whatever it may be, then I understand a charity or the government helping out but we each need to safeguard ourselves before we expect help from others.
A. We absolutely don’t turn a blind eye to the uninsured or insured. Ex. If your insurance company gives you a lump sum and you are carrying “x” amount of expenses and the insurance cannot meet all those payments, you have an unmet need. We don’t want anyone stretched beyond having to choose which payment to make and not make. Whether you have it
or not we can help you. If your insurance is covering everything, all your needs, you do not have unmet needs and have things taken care of so the Red Cross wouldn’t be needed.
Q. Hi Angie, I was wondering if you could ask them if they changed their process for receiving new fridges? We did not
have insurance and were very lucky and only lost two fridges, a freezer and did our own cleaning. We did however not make any income while we were evacuated and had obligations to take care of. We took the last bit of money and charged the
rest for a new fridge..we then found out the Red Cross was giving vouchers to help. We went to see them and was told so sorry but you already bought a fridge and was not eligible. It sucks because we had to charge it to a credit card. Do you know of any changes to this procedure of giving out vouchers for fridges? Thanks
A. If you are in a hardship situation because of the fridge and need other items, if you now don’t have grocery money to fill that fridge with food, they can help you with that. In terms of taking that fridge back, getting a refund, than trying to get a
voucher, the Red Cross cannot do that. If the credit balance that you now owe is hurting you and you cannot pay bills, get groceries, etc because of it, the Red Cross can help you. Also, if you need to replace the freezer and did not get that yet and need it, again, unmet need.
A couple other notes from the Red Cross:
- Currently the Slave Lake Wildfires donation fund sits at approx. 3 million dollars.
- Right now they have a preliminary budget in place and the average family that they help gets $7500 dollars in total. Right now they have approx. 3 million dollars in donation money. Multiply that by the 15, 000 affected residents/families, and that is $112, 500, 000.00 needed to help everyone out. So in taking such a thorough process in assessing who needs what and who doesn’t need, they can be sure those funds are given to those with unmet needs, as opposed to those who
want “their fair share” of the donation money. Keep in mind this assistance is not in cash, but in vouchers. If they were to divide it fair and square right now, families who needed help or not would be getting approx. $200.00.
- There are 15, 000 people they are assisting between all affected communities
- Hunting meat = few thousand dollars worth of meat, also an unmet need. If you were a hunter, with insurance or not, house burned down or not, this can still mean an unmet need for you and/or your family.
- The Red Cross isn’t just directly helping the people who lost homes, but who were evacuated as well. Keep in mind the hundreds of dollars that would be needed to replenish freezers and fridges.
- If you are concerned about how funds were managed, watch for the public budget will come out at the end of the year. Right now they are operating on a preliminary budget that isn’t and will not be made public. (I have asked that they put these
statements into graph form as a special “Slave Lake Financial Report” so we financial non-gurus and those who don’t know how to read financial statements can understand the report. No confirmation on whether this can be done or not)
- Currently the Red Cross is still seeing about 50 people a day. Keep in mind most of the people with the Red Cross who are at the College, are volunteers from all over Canada, and are there to help you. If you feel your needs are not being met, again contact me, and I can try to help you! Also, the Red Cross will be doing follow ups, assessing winter needs, etc.
Authors Note:
Funds that were donated to the Grande Prairie Community Foundation and the Edmonton Community Foundations have yet to be disclosed. Upon phoning the Grande Prairie Community Foundation and speaking with Tracey Vavrek, Executive Director, I was left with a "no comment" and "I cannot comment to that" in terms of how much money was collected. They have also said that it is confidential to protect their donors as to how much money they have in their fund. Yet the Red Cross does disclose how much has been collected so far. If you would like to inquire as a citizen or person who did donate to these foundations, contact:
Edmonton Foundation Media Contact: Martin Garber-Conrad,
Chief Executive-Officer
(780) 426-0015 or martin@ecfoundation.org
or
Tracey Vavrek, Executive Director, Community Foundation of Greater Grande Praire
(780) 538-2820 or tracey@buildingtomorrowtoday.com
Important Contact Information:
Ms. Pearl Calahasen (PC) - MLA for Lesser Slave Lake
High Prairie
P.O. Box 598 5001 - 49 Street High Prairie, AB
Canada T0G 1E0
Phone: (780) 523-3171 Phone: (780) 849-3479 (Slave Lake)
Toll-Free: 1-866-625-0648
Fax: (780) 523-5150
lesser.slavelake@assembly.ab.ca
Slave Lake
3, 221 3rd Avenue Slave Lake, AB Canada T0G 1E0
Phone: (780) 849-3479
Fax: (780) 849-9633
Brian Jean, MP (Keep in mind under the heading Riding News on his website, there is NO information on Slave Lake, the wildfires or assistance promised. And unlike Pearl - have you seen him at any meetings lately?)
Fort McMurray Constituency Office
102 9912 Franklin Ave
Fort McMurray, Alberta T9H 2K5
Tel: (780) 743-2201 Fax: (780) 743-2287
Toll Free (Alberta only) 1-877-532-6272
E-mail: brian.jean.c1@parl.gc.ca
Athabasca Constituency Office
5101, 50th Avenue Athabasca, Alberta T9S 1T2
Tel: (780) 675-8100 Fax: (780) 675-4017
Toll Free (Alberta only) 1-877-710-8100
Email: brian.jean.c2@parl.gc.ca
Ottawa Office
Tel: (613) 992-1154
Fax: (613) 992-4603
Email: brian.jean@parl.gc.ca
Slave Lake Housing Authority Call Centre
(780) 849-8681
Sunday June 5, 2011
Red Cross has set up the Canadian Red Cross Recovery Centre at the Northern Lakes College. Families and individuals who are in need of assistance can drop-in from 9 am until 4 pm. Appointments are available outside of regular hours by calling 780-849-8796. Some of the things Red Cross can help with includes:
· Emergency food and clothing (which can include work clothing, work boots, and small tools).
· Diapers, toys, “After the Fire” colouring books, and snacks for kids.
· Hygiene kits.
· Clean-up kits which includes a mask, gloves, eye protection, flashlight and batteries, duct tape, all purpose cleaner, a carpet brush and garbage bags.
· Help to renew essential medication, dentures, eye glasses, hearing aids, or mobility aids.
· Students from elementary to post secondary schools who need school supplies can also receive assistance.
· For families in undamaged homes who have unusable refrigerators, who cannot afford to replace their fridge, and who do not have insurance, the Red Cross may be able to provide a voucher for a standard refrigerator. Tenants who are renting a home are not eligible for the fridge replacement voucher as, in most cases, it is the landlords responsibility to replace essential appliances.
Saturday June 4, 2011
Slave Lake Canadian Red Cross Recovery Centre
Open This Weekend at Northern Lakes College
For Immediate Release
(SLAVE LAKE, June 4, 2011) The Slave Lake Canadian Red Cross Recovery Centre at Northern Lakes College is open this weekend to do needs assessments and provide immediate support to residents with unmet, urgent needs resulting from the recently wildfires.
The office, just inside the main entrance to the college, will be open from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. both Saturday and Sunday. Friday, volunteers at the Centre were extremely busy, providing needs assessments for nearly 100 clients and issuing more than 150 vouchers.
Starting Monday, the Centre will be open Monday to Saturday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Residents needing help with immediate needs, such as a fridge, school supplies, diapers, food or clothing, may drop in to the Centre during regular hours of operation. If they can’t attend the Centre during regular hours, they can call the Recovery Centre at 780-849-8796 to set up an appointment.
Additionally, Red Cross volunteers and staff will begin doing longer-term needs assessments on Monday by appointment only. Residents must call 780-849-8796 to make an appointment for this service as this process is lengthy.
A special team has been set up to maintain a presence in the community for at least two years to ensure that residents without the ability to meet their own intermediate and long-term needs can quickly access support.
Registration for those who have not already done so, will continue to be provided and can be accessed by calling the Red Cross at 1-800-565-4483. To access Government of Alberta programs and services please call 1-877-644-9992.
So far the Canadian Red Cross has received $1.1 million from generous Canadians and corporations to support families impacted by the Alberta Wildfires disaster. The assistance provided by Red Cross does not duplicate other available assistance or services, and is designed to ensure that essential needs are met and families receive the support they need to recover from disaster.
Thursday June 2, 2011
Red Cross to Assist with Slave Lake
Long-term Recovery for Next Two Years.
For Immediate Release
(SLAVE LAKE, June 2, 2011) Slave Lake and area residents facing what will undoubtedly be a long and difficult road to recovery will have a committed community partner throughout the journey – Canadian Red Cross.
While Canadian Red Cross, set up at Northern Lakes College, continues to provide immediate assistance to families impacted by wildfires in the Slave Lake, a special team has been set up to maintain a presence in the community to ensure that residents without the ability to meet their own intermediate and long-term needs can quickly access support.
“I want the people of Slave Lake and the surrounding community to know that Canadian Red Cross is their Red Cross and we will be here to help as long as we are needed,” said Canadian Red Cross Alberta Provincial Director Steve Armstrong after meeting with Slave Lake Mayor Karina Pillay-Kinnee yesterday.
“At Red Cross we know that recovery from a disaster takes time, and creates significant stress and hardship, particularly for families or individuals who may need support to help meet their own basic needs to move forward with longer-term recovery,”
The first two weeks of this disaster, has seen Red Cross partner with provincial and municipal governments to meet the immediate basic needs: food, clothing, shelter and other urgent items, of Slave Lake residents.
Part of this immediate relief plan includes the distribution of refrigerators to people in undamaged homes whose refrigerator is no longer usable and who do not have insurance on the contents of their home. Anyone with needs not met through insurance or government programs are welcome to inquire for assistance. A needs assessment will be completed to determine the levels of assistance available
Students will also receive some support to replace needed school supplies, with a voucher worth $50 in supplies available to elementary, junior and senior high school students, and one worth $75 for students attending post secondary school.
Local residents can come to the Red Cross office at the college from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily, including weekends, for short term assistance such as fridges and schools vouchers, or other needs. They can also call 780-849-8795. No appointment is necessary and drop-ins are welcome. Appointments outside of regular hours are available if necessary.
A separate Red Cross office, also at the college, will open Monday for residents who want Red Cross support in helping them address longer term unmet needs. This office will be open daily from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. to begin with. Residents will need to make an appointment to meet with a team member to begin this process as it can take up to an hour to complete the interview and paperwork.
When it comes to long-term recovery, Red Cross draws on extensive experience working with families impacted by disaster and works to build upon individual and community strength and resilience.
“Every disaster is different, and the variety of needs for families and individuals emerges over time. The Red Cross will be here in Slave Lake throughout the recovery to help address the needs specific to the people who live in and around this community,” said Armstrong.
“I know from experience that the support residents of Slave Lake and area need will be great, which is why we have established a presence here. But I have heard stories from local residents and our volunteers of the courage, fortitude and determination of Slave Lake residents so I know that the people of Slave Lake have a strong and resilient nature,” he said. “We are proud to work with the Town and with all residents here as we travel the road to recovery in partnership.”
Registration for those who have not already done so, will continue to be provided and can be accessed by calling the Red Cross at 1-800-565-4483. To access Government of Alberta programs and services please call 1-877-644-9992.
So far the Canadian Red Cross has received $1.1 million from generous Canadians and corporations to support families impacted by the Alberta Wildfires disaster. The assistance provided by Red Cross does not duplicate other available assistance or services, and is designed to ensure that essential needs are met and families receive the support they need to recover from disaster.
Sunday May 29, 2011
From the Edmonton Sun
About $1.1 million in donations from generous Canadians has aided disaster relief efforts across Western Canada — including relief for fire ravaged Slave Lake — says the Canadian Red Cross. Officials with the Canadian Red Cross could not break down how much of the donations were spent for displaced Slave Lake residents after wildfires wiped subdivision right off the map.
Efforts are also being made to flooding disasters in Manitoba, Saskatchewan, and British Columbia, said officials with the charity. Nathan Huculak, a spokesman with the Canadian Red Cross, said most of the donations have come from Albertans. All of the donations to the Canadian Red Cross has been put into a Canadian disaster fund the charity uses to respond to disasters, said Huculak.
That fund will help displaced residents find long-term accommodations, clean-up efforts in Slave Lake, “and getting a home back to a stage that’s liveable,” said Huculak. “Canadians are typically very generous when it comes to times of disaster to support other impacted Canadians and others around the world,” said Huculak. “Slave Lake is one of our core activities.”
Meanwhile, the province announced plans Saturday to move 100 firefighters, police, emergency medical service workers, and health care staff into hotels in Slave Lake to free up living spaces for residents who lost their homes.
“Our community won’t be whole until we get everybody back and I want our citizens to know that we won’t rest until we rebuild our community,” said Slave Lake Mayor Karina Pillay-Kinee in a press release. “We are working closely with (the provincial government) to get temporary housing in place for our displaced residents. Our hearts go out to everyone who experienced loss during the wildfire.”
The province said in a release that other options “are being explored” for housing options in Slave Lake and roughly 200 nearby camping spaces have been set aside for displace residents.
Wednesday May 25, 2011Registration
All evacuees will be required to have registered with the Canadian Red Cross prior to being given their Government of Alberta cheques. Evacuees who have not registered will be required to register with the Canadian Red Cross in person at locations where Red Cross volunteers are on site or via the Telus Canadian Red Cross Call Centre by phoning 1-800-565-4483.
Disaster Assistance Cheques
Evacuees will be able to receive their Disaster Assistance cheques from the Government of Alberta at any Alberta Works office in the province. Cheques can also be collected at Service Centers, in Athabasca, Edmonton, Grande Prairie, High Prairie, Peace River, Valleyview, Wabasca, Westlock and Smith. The Service Centres will be open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. seven days a week until further notice.
Accessing Provincial Government Assistance
The Government of Alberta has set up a toll free information line for evacuees that have questions related to the fire, programs and services that the Alberta government can provide. Evacuees are encouraged to call the Alberta Supports Contact Center 1-877-644-9992 for more information.
Unmet Needs
If you still have unmet needs, the Canadian Red Cross may be able assist those who have had fire-related damage to their home and are suffering hardship as a result of the disaster. Red Cross help can include information, food, basic repairs, household goods, occupational needs and clean-up kits equipped with general cleaning supplies. To learn more phone 1-800-565-4483
Wednesday May 25, 2011
After a great conversation with the Red Cross, I have cleared some of your questions up! Many were asking - where is the $600,000 that was donated to Slave Lake? Why are we only getting the government money? Why is the Red Cross only registering us on site and not volunteering or helping at the evac sites?
Here is the answer:
Of course we cannot always see whats going on behind the scenes, but when you are evacuated and see all this money go to an organization, you worry and wonder whats going to happen to it. Rumors start swirling and the end result is angry questions.
The money donated to Slave Lake WILL stay in Slave Lake, as long as the funds were earmarked Slave Lake Wildfires. If you are donating, please be sure to do that. And than even if it takes 10 years to go through that money, the Red Cross will ensure it stays with Slave Lake until it is all spent. (Remember the Pine Lake tornado? They just closed that case file and distributed the last of the funds to those in need, so you know they are sticking by their word, that was over 10 years ago!)
The Red Cross is planning on setting up shop in Slave Lake long term to help the people effected by these fires. Whatever needs have to be met will be based on assessment of each individual and family and the Red Cross will act accordingly. They plan to give assistance, help out, and get people back on their feet again. A preliminary team is in Slave Lake right now planning and assessing things.
Also, the Red Cross has open case files of evacuees they are looking to find after family has called in and wondered where they were. They have been able to call families and let them know where there loved ones are and that they are safe, and are still working on open cases. It is massively important that your register with the Red Cross, because we don't want you to be one of those open cases and have your families worried. Thank you so so so much Red Cross for calling back, and letting these questions get asked, and giving answers. Its so hard to know whats going on when you are evcuated and not too sure whats going on around you, when you can go home, etc, and this I hope can help you out.
So earmark those funds properly, and donate-away to the Red Cross - they have a stellar reputation, and despite this kink of not knowing what was happening and no communication, we finally have gotten that communication and it is positive and the Red Cross will help the people of Slave Lake and area for as long as they are needed
Tuesday May 17, 2011
Hi there. My name is Michelle French, and I work for the Canadian Red Cross. I just wanted to point out that we do not accept in-kind donations. We accept financial donations as this is the best way for us to help disaster-affected individuals. Basically, we are able to zero in on exactly what is needed and purchase it from the closest suppliers. Thanks for your time!
Basically, the most efficient thing for them to do would be to donate online to our donation portal. http://www.redcross.ca/article.asp?id=39285&tid=001. If they choose to write a cheque, they would need to earmark it “Alberta Fires” (but make it payable to the Canadian Red Cross).
In terms of where the cash is going, donations made to the Western Canada Severe Weather fund in support of the Alberta fires, will be used in Alberta. But if donations exceed the needs in Alberta, we will use that money to support other families facing disasters in other parts of Western Canada.
Michelle French
Digital Communications Advisor
Public Affairs
Red Cross has set up the Canadian Red Cross Recovery Centre at the Northern Lakes College. Families and individuals who are in need of assistance can drop-in from 9 am until 4 pm. Appointments are available outside of regular hours by calling 780-849-8796. Some of the things Red Cross can help with includes:
· Emergency food and clothing (which can include work clothing, work boots, and small tools).
· Diapers, toys, “After the Fire” colouring books, and snacks for kids.
· Hygiene kits.
· Clean-up kits which includes a mask, gloves, eye protection, flashlight and batteries, duct tape, all purpose cleaner, a carpet brush and garbage bags.
· Help to renew essential medication, dentures, eye glasses, hearing aids, or mobility aids.
· Students from elementary to post secondary schools who need school supplies can also receive assistance.
· For families in undamaged homes who have unusable refrigerators, who cannot afford to replace their fridge, and who do not have insurance, the Red Cross may be able to provide a voucher for a standard refrigerator. Tenants who are renting a home are not eligible for the fridge replacement voucher as, in most cases, it is the landlords responsibility to replace essential appliances.
Saturday June 4, 2011
Slave Lake Canadian Red Cross Recovery Centre
Open This Weekend at Northern Lakes College
For Immediate Release
(SLAVE LAKE, June 4, 2011) The Slave Lake Canadian Red Cross Recovery Centre at Northern Lakes College is open this weekend to do needs assessments and provide immediate support to residents with unmet, urgent needs resulting from the recently wildfires.
The office, just inside the main entrance to the college, will be open from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. both Saturday and Sunday. Friday, volunteers at the Centre were extremely busy, providing needs assessments for nearly 100 clients and issuing more than 150 vouchers.
Starting Monday, the Centre will be open Monday to Saturday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Residents needing help with immediate needs, such as a fridge, school supplies, diapers, food or clothing, may drop in to the Centre during regular hours of operation. If they can’t attend the Centre during regular hours, they can call the Recovery Centre at 780-849-8796 to set up an appointment.
Additionally, Red Cross volunteers and staff will begin doing longer-term needs assessments on Monday by appointment only. Residents must call 780-849-8796 to make an appointment for this service as this process is lengthy.
A special team has been set up to maintain a presence in the community for at least two years to ensure that residents without the ability to meet their own intermediate and long-term needs can quickly access support.
Registration for those who have not already done so, will continue to be provided and can be accessed by calling the Red Cross at 1-800-565-4483. To access Government of Alberta programs and services please call 1-877-644-9992.
So far the Canadian Red Cross has received $1.1 million from generous Canadians and corporations to support families impacted by the Alberta Wildfires disaster. The assistance provided by Red Cross does not duplicate other available assistance or services, and is designed to ensure that essential needs are met and families receive the support they need to recover from disaster.
Thursday June 2, 2011
Red Cross to Assist with Slave Lake
Long-term Recovery for Next Two Years.
For Immediate Release
(SLAVE LAKE, June 2, 2011) Slave Lake and area residents facing what will undoubtedly be a long and difficult road to recovery will have a committed community partner throughout the journey – Canadian Red Cross.
While Canadian Red Cross, set up at Northern Lakes College, continues to provide immediate assistance to families impacted by wildfires in the Slave Lake, a special team has been set up to maintain a presence in the community to ensure that residents without the ability to meet their own intermediate and long-term needs can quickly access support.
“I want the people of Slave Lake and the surrounding community to know that Canadian Red Cross is their Red Cross and we will be here to help as long as we are needed,” said Canadian Red Cross Alberta Provincial Director Steve Armstrong after meeting with Slave Lake Mayor Karina Pillay-Kinnee yesterday.
“At Red Cross we know that recovery from a disaster takes time, and creates significant stress and hardship, particularly for families or individuals who may need support to help meet their own basic needs to move forward with longer-term recovery,”
The first two weeks of this disaster, has seen Red Cross partner with provincial and municipal governments to meet the immediate basic needs: food, clothing, shelter and other urgent items, of Slave Lake residents.
Part of this immediate relief plan includes the distribution of refrigerators to people in undamaged homes whose refrigerator is no longer usable and who do not have insurance on the contents of their home. Anyone with needs not met through insurance or government programs are welcome to inquire for assistance. A needs assessment will be completed to determine the levels of assistance available
Students will also receive some support to replace needed school supplies, with a voucher worth $50 in supplies available to elementary, junior and senior high school students, and one worth $75 for students attending post secondary school.
Local residents can come to the Red Cross office at the college from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily, including weekends, for short term assistance such as fridges and schools vouchers, or other needs. They can also call 780-849-8795. No appointment is necessary and drop-ins are welcome. Appointments outside of regular hours are available if necessary.
A separate Red Cross office, also at the college, will open Monday for residents who want Red Cross support in helping them address longer term unmet needs. This office will be open daily from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. to begin with. Residents will need to make an appointment to meet with a team member to begin this process as it can take up to an hour to complete the interview and paperwork.
When it comes to long-term recovery, Red Cross draws on extensive experience working with families impacted by disaster and works to build upon individual and community strength and resilience.
“Every disaster is different, and the variety of needs for families and individuals emerges over time. The Red Cross will be here in Slave Lake throughout the recovery to help address the needs specific to the people who live in and around this community,” said Armstrong.
“I know from experience that the support residents of Slave Lake and area need will be great, which is why we have established a presence here. But I have heard stories from local residents and our volunteers of the courage, fortitude and determination of Slave Lake residents so I know that the people of Slave Lake have a strong and resilient nature,” he said. “We are proud to work with the Town and with all residents here as we travel the road to recovery in partnership.”
Registration for those who have not already done so, will continue to be provided and can be accessed by calling the Red Cross at 1-800-565-4483. To access Government of Alberta programs and services please call 1-877-644-9992.
So far the Canadian Red Cross has received $1.1 million from generous Canadians and corporations to support families impacted by the Alberta Wildfires disaster. The assistance provided by Red Cross does not duplicate other available assistance or services, and is designed to ensure that essential needs are met and families receive the support they need to recover from disaster.
Sunday May 29, 2011
From the Edmonton Sun
About $1.1 million in donations from generous Canadians has aided disaster relief efforts across Western Canada — including relief for fire ravaged Slave Lake — says the Canadian Red Cross. Officials with the Canadian Red Cross could not break down how much of the donations were spent for displaced Slave Lake residents after wildfires wiped subdivision right off the map.
Efforts are also being made to flooding disasters in Manitoba, Saskatchewan, and British Columbia, said officials with the charity. Nathan Huculak, a spokesman with the Canadian Red Cross, said most of the donations have come from Albertans. All of the donations to the Canadian Red Cross has been put into a Canadian disaster fund the charity uses to respond to disasters, said Huculak.
That fund will help displaced residents find long-term accommodations, clean-up efforts in Slave Lake, “and getting a home back to a stage that’s liveable,” said Huculak. “Canadians are typically very generous when it comes to times of disaster to support other impacted Canadians and others around the world,” said Huculak. “Slave Lake is one of our core activities.”
Meanwhile, the province announced plans Saturday to move 100 firefighters, police, emergency medical service workers, and health care staff into hotels in Slave Lake to free up living spaces for residents who lost their homes.
“Our community won’t be whole until we get everybody back and I want our citizens to know that we won’t rest until we rebuild our community,” said Slave Lake Mayor Karina Pillay-Kinee in a press release. “We are working closely with (the provincial government) to get temporary housing in place for our displaced residents. Our hearts go out to everyone who experienced loss during the wildfire.”
The province said in a release that other options “are being explored” for housing options in Slave Lake and roughly 200 nearby camping spaces have been set aside for displace residents.
Wednesday May 25, 2011Registration
All evacuees will be required to have registered with the Canadian Red Cross prior to being given their Government of Alberta cheques. Evacuees who have not registered will be required to register with the Canadian Red Cross in person at locations where Red Cross volunteers are on site or via the Telus Canadian Red Cross Call Centre by phoning 1-800-565-4483.
Disaster Assistance Cheques
Evacuees will be able to receive their Disaster Assistance cheques from the Government of Alberta at any Alberta Works office in the province. Cheques can also be collected at Service Centers, in Athabasca, Edmonton, Grande Prairie, High Prairie, Peace River, Valleyview, Wabasca, Westlock and Smith. The Service Centres will be open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. seven days a week until further notice.
Accessing Provincial Government Assistance
The Government of Alberta has set up a toll free information line for evacuees that have questions related to the fire, programs and services that the Alberta government can provide. Evacuees are encouraged to call the Alberta Supports Contact Center 1-877-644-9992 for more information.
Unmet Needs
If you still have unmet needs, the Canadian Red Cross may be able assist those who have had fire-related damage to their home and are suffering hardship as a result of the disaster. Red Cross help can include information, food, basic repairs, household goods, occupational needs and clean-up kits equipped with general cleaning supplies. To learn more phone 1-800-565-4483
Wednesday May 25, 2011
After a great conversation with the Red Cross, I have cleared some of your questions up! Many were asking - where is the $600,000 that was donated to Slave Lake? Why are we only getting the government money? Why is the Red Cross only registering us on site and not volunteering or helping at the evac sites?
Here is the answer:
Of course we cannot always see whats going on behind the scenes, but when you are evacuated and see all this money go to an organization, you worry and wonder whats going to happen to it. Rumors start swirling and the end result is angry questions.
The money donated to Slave Lake WILL stay in Slave Lake, as long as the funds were earmarked Slave Lake Wildfires. If you are donating, please be sure to do that. And than even if it takes 10 years to go through that money, the Red Cross will ensure it stays with Slave Lake until it is all spent. (Remember the Pine Lake tornado? They just closed that case file and distributed the last of the funds to those in need, so you know they are sticking by their word, that was over 10 years ago!)
The Red Cross is planning on setting up shop in Slave Lake long term to help the people effected by these fires. Whatever needs have to be met will be based on assessment of each individual and family and the Red Cross will act accordingly. They plan to give assistance, help out, and get people back on their feet again. A preliminary team is in Slave Lake right now planning and assessing things.
Also, the Red Cross has open case files of evacuees they are looking to find after family has called in and wondered where they were. They have been able to call families and let them know where there loved ones are and that they are safe, and are still working on open cases. It is massively important that your register with the Red Cross, because we don't want you to be one of those open cases and have your families worried. Thank you so so so much Red Cross for calling back, and letting these questions get asked, and giving answers. Its so hard to know whats going on when you are evcuated and not too sure whats going on around you, when you can go home, etc, and this I hope can help you out.
So earmark those funds properly, and donate-away to the Red Cross - they have a stellar reputation, and despite this kink of not knowing what was happening and no communication, we finally have gotten that communication and it is positive and the Red Cross will help the people of Slave Lake and area for as long as they are needed
Tuesday May 17, 2011
Hi there. My name is Michelle French, and I work for the Canadian Red Cross. I just wanted to point out that we do not accept in-kind donations. We accept financial donations as this is the best way for us to help disaster-affected individuals. Basically, we are able to zero in on exactly what is needed and purchase it from the closest suppliers. Thanks for your time!
Basically, the most efficient thing for them to do would be to donate online to our donation portal. http://www.redcross.ca/article.asp?id=39285&tid=001. If they choose to write a cheque, they would need to earmark it “Alberta Fires” (but make it payable to the Canadian Red Cross).
In terms of where the cash is going, donations made to the Western Canada Severe Weather fund in support of the Alberta fires, will be used in Alberta. But if donations exceed the needs in Alberta, we will use that money to support other families facing disasters in other parts of Western Canada.
Michelle French
Digital Communications Advisor
Public Affairs
