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New guide helps communities prepare to receive evacuees
Social Sector Activation Guide provides step-by-step process to ensure essential services are in place ahead of emergencies
With more B.C. communities affected by emergencies, like wildfires, than ever before, United Way British Columbia (United Way BC) is making it easier for neighbouring municipalities to prepare in the case they become host communities to evacuees.
United Way BC’s original Social Sector Activation Guide was created in response to the extraordinary environmental events of recent years, namely atmospheric river floods and wildfires. As a primary host community, Kamloops, located within the unceded Secwépemc Territory, was called upon to receive evacuees from surrounding areas in both events.
It was quickly identified that there were gaps when it came to hosting and helping evacuees during their greatest hour of need.
Developed alongside their growing library of emergency preparedness resources, United Way BC’s updated Social Sector Activation Guide addresses gaps and incorporates learnings from the past several years supporting British Columbians in times of crisis.
It aims to bring the social sector and broader community together to effectively work alongside Emergency Support Services during an activation to a large-scale, climate-related event.
“We know it takes many people working together to ensure a strong community response to an emergency situation,” said Kristi Rintoul, Director Community Impact & Investment, United Way British Columbia.
“When a host community is activated, it can be a challenging time for everyone. With this guide, we can help improve equitable response practises and increase safety and service availability for evacuees.”
Since 2017, United Way BC has responded to emergency situations impacting communities, including wildfires, floods, displaced Ukrainians fleeing their war-torn home, and most recently those affected by the tragedy at the Lapu Lapu festival. Building on its experience and reputation as a trusted partner, United Way BC’s Emergency Response & Recovery is there for British Columbians bringing together governments, First Nations, leaders, and local community members to build stronger, more resilient communities.
United Way British Columbia
