Communities on Vancouver Island and across British Columbia have been profoundly affected by the extreme floods that pose extraordinary challenges for the safety and recovery of people across the province. Following so quickly on the heels of the wildfires that continue to impact the people of our region, United Way Southern Vancouver Island (UWSVI), working with our United Way colleagues in BC, recognizes that support will be needed for both intermediate and long-term recovery efforts for those affected by this catastrophic flooding.
A variety of programs and essential services that strengthen vital connections will be critical as Vancouver Island residents recover physically and emotionally from the devastation of flooding within our local communities. To that end, United Way Southern Vancouver Island is working alongside its provincial colleagues and has launched The United for BC Flood Response Fund – bringing together the power of many to help those affected by the floods.
With the launch of this campaign, UWSVI will be appealing to the public for contributions to the fund. Already, Prospera Credit Union and the Steelworkers Humanity Fund have each generously stepped up with $50,000 contributions to launch the fund with $100,000.
UWSVI encourages all those in need of immediate resources to use bc211 by dialing 2-1-1 or visit bc.211.ca. Bc211 is a free and confidential service that connects people to helpful and vital resources in their community.
“United Way is very responsive to critical needs in our communities and we will always provide support whether this or other traumatic events,” says Mark Breslauer, CEO of United Way Southern Vancouver Island. “We’re proud to serve our local community in times of need but we can’t do it alone. We’re encouraging residents to donate to the response fund as we rebuild together.”
The United for BC Flood Response Fund will support those who are displaced or have lost housing, belongings and/or employment, suffered physical or mental health trauma, and emerging needs.
To contribute to the United for BC Flood Response Fund, visit: https://uwsvi.ca/bc-floods/
