SCF Emergency Relief Fund Nearly $800,000
Shuswap Community Foundation
The wildfires that swept through the North Shuswap region this summer had a devastating impact on homes, businesses, and disrupted the lives of many individuals and families. In response to this crisis, the Shuswap Community Foundation (SCF) established the Emergency Response Fund (ERF) to aid in the recovery and rebuilding of affected communities. To date, the Fund has received nearly $800,000 in donations from generous individuals and community partners.
Recognizing that those best suited to lead the community’s recovery efforts are its own members, the foundation is deeply grateful to local community leaders who rose to the occasion to form the North Shuswap Disaster Relief Society (NSDRS). This volunteer community group works with a multitude of organizations to efficiently deliver resources and support to the residents of North Shuswap who are most in need. Their decisions are informed by local knowledge, ensuring a timely and targeted response.
Illustrating the depth of this community connection, NSDRS volunteers conduct needs assessments and facilitate funding applications by visiting individuals in their current or former residences. Priority is given to those requiring winter accommodation, individuals in need of power, water, or septic services, and those seeking assistance to make their homes winter friendly. Additionally, funding support is extended to individuals who have lost their livelihoods due to the absence of tools or shelters for their business activities. While the Society acknowledges that they have not yet identified the entirety of needs created by the wildfire, they express gratitude to residents for sharing their stories, providing valuable insights that guides their efforts.
In the two weeks following its founding, the Society received six applications that are in the final stages of the approval process.
The most common request so far is power poles to connect to a trailer while they rebuild.
Other requests include lumber, windows, storage facilities for personal effects, and tools of trade to enable people to get back to work and/or rebuild their homes.
Everyone has their unique circumstances, but they all share a vision for the future, taking it one step at a time. The applicants’ plans are highly practical, and NSDRS is customizing assistance to align with those specific needs.
Thus far, the Shuswap Community Foundation has delivered over $180,000 in grant funding to NSDRS, the Shuswap Trail Alliance, and the Lakeview Community Centre to support recovery efforts. The foundation has implemented a streamlined process to ensure swift and efficient funding for these groups as they work towards rebuilding the community.
Despite these early successes, all involved recognize that the recovery and rebuilding of these communities will require millions of dollars and take place over many years. Individuals and families have lost their residences and livelihoods, and the costs associated with rebuilding homes, providing psychological support, and aiding in community restoration far exceed the current available funds. Additional donations are crucial to ensuring a comprehensive and sustained recovery effort, enabling the Shuswap community to rebuild and heal from the lasting impact of the wildfires. Your continued support will make a significant difference in the lives of those affected by this devastating event.
Both NSDRS and SCF are committed to continued to engagement with individuals and organizations throughout the area to support community members impacted.
If you are in the North Shuswap and have a need, contact North Shuswap Disaster Relief Society at info@nsdisasterrelief.ca Or visit their website at https://www.nsdisasterrelief.ca/
If you wish to support North Shuswap communities by making a donation, contact Shuswap Community Foundation at info@shuswapfoundation.ca, or visit our website at www.shuswapfoundation.ca
Donations can also be made directly by e-transfer to info@shuswapfoundation.ca or, at any SASCU branch.
Shuswap Community Foundation is driven by a commitment to our community’s well-being. The Emergency Response Fund is a testament to this commitment, putting community-voiced priorities at the forefront of our efforts.
