Citizens around the world have been moved to support their British Columbian neighbours in need after the province experienced unprecedented flooding last November/December. Individuals, companies and organizations demonstrated their commitment to strengthening vital connections by donating over $2 million to the United for BC Flood Response Fund.

As a result of that generosity, United Way British Columbia – working with communities in BC’s Interior, Lower Mainland, Central & Northern Vancouver Island – is on the ground, working on a variety of programs and essential services that will be critical as BC residents recover physically and emotionally after the flood devastation. Here are some examples of how the United for BC Flood Response fund is supporting people across the province:

Remote and Indigenous communities affected by floods are receiving food, despite compromised transportation routes and damaged farmland. Through partnership with SPUD online grocers and the Chilliwack Bowls of Hope Society, 1,000 pounds of food have been delivered to Seabird Island First Nation in Agassiz, the Agassiz Food Bank, and Yarrow flood victims, with more to come.

Over 70,000 tampons, pads, and other essential menstrual products have been delivered to communities severely impacted by the floods. That includes evacuation centres in the Fraser Valley, Agassiz, Hope, and Merritt.

ICBC’s claim centres and driver licensing offices collected non-perishable food items and essential goods for United Way Flood Response.

DoorDash is donating $25,000 in Community Credits gift cards going to Food Hubs for use in support of flood response efforts.

Families in crisis are receiving critical relief through partnership with Mamas for Mamas such as emotional support, help navigating resources, and gift cards for groceries and stores near hotels.

“So many families faced their worst nightmare in this last month,” said Celena Arthur, Director of Community Engagement and Funding Development, Mamas for Mamas. “We helped a single dad and his 13-year-old after being helicoptered out from their community that was between two mud slides, a mother and her two teenage sons who were evacuated from their basement suite, and a mom of two small boys who didn’t have a vehicle and whose husband can’t get to work due to floods. We are thankful to United Way for establishing the United for BC Flood Response Fund because it’s giving us hope for the future – and it’s also giving us hope that we can do some celebrating during the holidays despite being overwhelmed by devastation. This is what community is all about.”

To make sure no neighbours get left behind this holiday season, United Way is working with organizations like Mamas for Mamas who are collecting the following items to fill Christmas hampers: gift cards to purchase the most needed items (particularly for teens), diapers and wipes, new clothing and shoes, warm socks, hats and gloves, self-care items (shampoo, soaps, candles), non-perishable food that has not expired (snacks are encouraged), and brand new unused, unwrapped toys. Donations will be accepted at the Mamas for Mamas office (123-11121 Horseshoe Way, Richmond, BC).

The United for BC Flood Response Fund is continuing to bring community spirit to the forefront – especially a time when many neighbours impacted by floods are wondering what the holidays will bring. The fund will support those who are displaced or have lost housing, belongings and/or employment, suffered physical or mental health trauma, and emerging needs. The power of many is helping those affected by BC flooding, but our neighbours still need help.

To contribute to the United for BC Flood Response Fund, visit: donate.uwbc.ca/flood

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