Wildfire in Fort McMurray, Alberta
MORAVIAN DISASTER RESPONSE
Wildfire in Fort McMurray, Alberta
The city of Fort McMurray in Northern Alberta evacuated up to 80,000 people yesterday afternoon and evening as a result of a wild fire that engulfed areas of the city. The situation is very much evolving, today’s weather is expected to be worse than yesterday. Municipal, Provincial and Federal resources are in place to respond. The Canadian Red Cross is coordinating the support for evacuees. As of this morning the only folks in Fort McMurray are first responders, fire fighters, and police. Although an estimated 1600 buildings have been destroyed, we have been advised this morning that there were no casualties or fatalities.
The focus today is on protecting critical infrastructure and fighting the fire. Municipalities south of Fort McMurray have established reception sites for those fleeing to the south. Oilsands Operation Camps north and south of Fort McMurray are being opened to the thousands who had to evacuate. The Board of World Mission is monitoring the situation and is in contact with partner organizations as immediate and long term needs are assessed. If you are feeling called to help respond, please see avenues for donating and volunteering below.
Make a Donation Donations to help support MDR as it partners in the recovery can be made online by going to moravianmission.org/give. Please use the online giving form, and in comments designate the Donation for “Moravian Disaster Response”. Donations can also be sent directly to the Board of World Mission at the address below. In the memo line of any checks please write “Moravian Disaster Response”. Board of World Mission PO Box 1245 Bethlehem, PA 18016 NOTE: We are requesting funds be designated for general disaster response to allow the BWM to respond with the flexibility needed in this ongoing situation. All funds under this designation will be used for disaster response.
Volunteer If you are interested in getting information on joining teams to help in the recovery and rebuilding efforts for this, or other disasters, please use this link to enter your contact information, and the BWM will follow up with you regarding any specific opportunities to get involved. Please contact the BWM with any questions.
Northern Province Office: 610.868.1732
Southern Province Office: 336.773.1732
Justin Rabbach
Director of Mission Engagement
Board of World Mission
[email protected]