Red Cross responds to Fort McMurray fires, launches Alberta Fires Appeal

A massive wildfire in Fort McMurray, Alta., has threatened a dozen communities in the area since it started spreading on May 1.

A mandatory evacuation has forced all 70,000 Fort McMurray residents to leave their homes in search of safety – the largest fire-related evacuation in the province’s history. The fire has destroyed homes in several areas and is threatening downtown.

Canadian Red Cross is on alert with personnel and stock ready to deploy to the affected area as needed.

The situation on the ground is evolving rapidly. Weather conditions are expected to deteriorate over the next 24 hours, with high temperatures and winds in the area.
 

Donate to the Alberta Fires Appeal 

Donations could provide relief for those affected in the form of emergency food, clothing, shelter, personal services, and other necessities to help assist with recovery and resiliency. 

Canadians wishing to make a donation are encouraged to make a financial donation to the Alberta Fires Appeal.

Canadian Red Cross Appeals

When we launch an appeal, donations made in response to it are used to help communities and countries identified in the appeal to recover from emergencies and disasters by providing immediate assistance and relief. Once these urgent needs have been met, we may use any remaining funds in and beyond the region to strengthen resilience to future emergencies and disasters or to provide humanitarian aid in the event that new needs arise.

The fundraising cost related to any emergency appeal will not exceed five per cent. Remaining funds will be used for Red Cross operations to support vulnerable people, families and communities. This includes a small portion of funds, one and a half percent, which ensures the Canadian Red Cross is ready and prepared to respond to future disasters.