Appeal for Fire Aid

July 14, 2017

I’m writing to BCFED affiliates to ask you to consider sending a message of solidarity and a helping handto those who have been affected the rampage of wildfires by donating to the fire appeal campaign of the Canadian Red Cross in British Columbia.

We’ve all watched in horror as rampaging fires have swept through so many BC communities—and threaten many more. Thousands more British Columbians face emergency evacuation orders to leave behind their homes and communities at a moment’s notice. Homes and cherished possessions have been lost, livelihoods impacted, families uprooted and the fabric of communities deeply torn.

At the same time, we’ve also seen the great commitment of working people to battle the blazes and help those affected. Hundreds of wildfire fighters and other firefighting personnel are displaying great courage and determination on the front lines of this tragedy. 

Other emergency responders are assisting with evacuations and community safety. Resource and construction workers whose jobs have been impacted are volunteering to help with fire suppression. And many more are playing an active role in delivering emergency services and disaster relief, and providing comfort to those affected.

A number of unions have also made important contributions by supporting those amongst their membership working to end the disaster, and those hurt by it.

The Red Cross is on the ground providing much needed help to those impacted by the disaster. They have a special BC forest fire appeal, and donations can be made online at redcross.ca. Likewise, donation information is also available on the organization’s web site.

The Federation will contribute to the appeal. Both myself and Secretary-Treasurer Aaron Ekman have already made personal donations. I would ask that your union join the BCFED in making a difference by contributing and encouraging your members to do so too individually.

Yours truly,

Irene Lanzinger
President

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