How you can help after the fires in the Shuswap

Summer was going along so well this year - the sun was out, lake days were the best and things seemed to have returned to normal in the Shuswap. That is until they weren't.

The fires have changed the face of the North Shuswap with so many buildings - homes, cabins and businesses lost. Even a fire hall is gone.

Even before the fires were out, the community has started raising money for families and community groups impacted by the fires, If you are looking to support in anyway, here are some great options:

1. Donate to local relief efforts

One of the most effective ways to assist wildfire victims is by donating to local relief organizations. These organizations are on the ground, providing essential support and resources to those in need. Your contribution, no matter how small, can make a significant difference in rebuilding lives.

• The Shuswap Community Foundation has launched the Emergency Response Wildfire Relief Fund - SASCU is matching funds up to $25,000
• Farmstrong Cider in Armstrong is selling a Fireman Burger and $20 from each burger is going towards rebuilding the Scotch Creek Fire Hall 
• Bayside Marina in Blind Bay has a fire boot collecting donations for the local fire departments
• Canada Helps lists a number of fundraising efforts for the Salvation Arm, Canadian Red Cross and ALERT
• Finz Resort & Reds Rentals and Harty Clothing are selling Shuswap Strong clothing which is raising money for those who had loss on their properties
• Lake & Life Apparel created Shuswap Strong stickers with proceeds going to fire relief through a few different organizations
• Shuswap Bite & Bevy is an event with a number of wineries, cideries and breweries along with food vendors to raise money - UPDATE: it raised over $8,600
• Lakeview Cruise In car show raised over $48,000 

2. Volunteer your time

Consider volunteering your time and skills to assist with the recovery efforts. Lots of people stepped in to open their homes to evacuees, make meals for first responders and volunteers, find places for pets, start fundraisers and more. An event like this brings communities together for a period but there are still ways to get involved and volunteer with community organizations which are involved in rebuilding, supporting the families and youth through sports, arts and other organizations or community events. 

3. Support local businesses

Many businesses in the Shuswap region have been severely impacted by the wildfires. By supporting these businesses, you can help them recover and rebuild. Whether it's dining at local restaurants, shopping at local stores, or utilizing local services, every purchase can make a difference.

If now isn't the time to purchase something from your favourite businesses, there are many ways to support your them without spending a dollar:

• Tell a friend about them 
• Give their social posts a like or comment 
• Reshare their social posts to your social channels  
• Share a pic of something about their business
• Leave them a review on Google or Facebook

Did we miss anything?

By coming together as a community and offering support to those affected by the wildfires in the Shuswap, we can make a difference in their lives. Whether it's through donations, volunteering, providing housing, supporting local businesses, or spreading awareness, every action counts. Let's show our solidarity and help rebuild the lives of our fellow community members.

If you know of a fundraiser, community event or a local organization which is working to help those in our community, drop it into the comments below.