United Way helping out

Photo: CTV

The United Way has launched a fundraising campaign to help those impacted by recent wildfires.

The United Way is known for helping people and organizations in various communities, and now United Ways across the province are teaming up to help those impacted by wildfires.

United Way Centraide Canada and United Way Thompson Nicola Cariboo are driving the initial launch. Other impacted United Way regions are following suit.

“Recovery from a crisis like the B.C. wildfires will be a long process spanning months to several years,” said Danalee Baker, executive director of United Way Thompson Nicola Cariboo. “Recovery and rebuilding will look different for each community as well as each individual and family. It might be as simple as cleaning out a fridge, or as intensive as re-building a home from scratch or dealing with depression as a result of trauma. What will be the same for everyone is the fear and uncertainty that such a crisis brings.”

Linda Yule, executive director of the North Okanagan United Way, said the local agency will be participating in the United for BC Wildfire Recovery program.

“This is going to be for recovery for a lot of people going back. This is just the beginning for them,” said Yule.

Funds raised through this initiative will stay in B.C. to support the greatest needs of affected communities. As the fire season evolves, this list will expand. People can support 'United for BC Wildfire Recovery' by making a donation or signing up to volunteer for recovery efforts online.

"The devastating fires have affected so many,” said Yule. “With tinder dry conditions everywhere, and already a terrible fire in Okanagan Centre, we hope that we don't see further devastation in our region. We are preparing to mobilize should we need to and learning from the amazing efforts of volunteers and agencies in neighbouring regions."

Yule said United Way officials will decide where the money can be the most beneficial.

“We will all be agreeing where the funds would do the most good,” she said. “They did a similar thing in Ft. McMurray.”