Getting separated from family during the confusion of a disaster is one of the most frightening things that can happen to people. That's why the role performed during the Saskatchewan wildfires by Red Cross volunteer Barb MacLean is so important.
A veteran Red Cross volunteer, MacLean is currently managing one of the shelters in Saskatoon. In this position, she has helped reunite several families who have been separated because of the fires. In the past couple of days, she has helped a man find his children and grandchildren, two young adults reconnect with their parents, and a man reunite with his wife.
To start a search for family members, people first meet with the Red Cross or call our toll-free number at 1-888-953-3463. Once missing people are found, they are connected by phone so they can hear the voices of their loved ones and feel reassured that they are safe.
A veteran Red Cross volunteer, MacLean is currently managing one of the shelters in Saskatoon. In this position, she has helped reunite several families who have been separated because of the fires. In the past couple of days, she has helped a man find his children and grandchildren, two young adults reconnect with their parents, and a man reunite with his wife.
Red Cross volunteer Barb MacLean leads a meeting at a Saskatoon shelter.
When MacLean meets with these people, their requests are always the same: "I just want to see my family." The importance of family support is amplified during disasters, she notes.To start a search for family members, people first meet with the Red Cross or call our toll-free number at 1-888-953-3463. Once missing people are found, they are connected by phone so they can hear the voices of their loved ones and feel reassured that they are safe.
The Canadian Red Cross is responding to the wildfires in northern Saskatchewan on behalf of the provincial government. To date, Red Cross is providing emergency assistance to about 8,800 people from as many as 54 communities."They've all told me how much this means to them. They've thanked me and shook my hand," says MacLean.
