This release was issued under a previous government.

Alberta Wildfire Donation Centre

Alberta Wildfire Donation Centre

ADRA Canada will receive, sort, store, catalogue and distribute material donations for residents affected by the Wood Buffalo wildfire. ADRA Canada will also develop a strategy to reach out to other non-profits and grass root community groups to co-ordinate donations across the province to ensure consistent collection and distribution practices.

“Words cannot begin to describe the overwhelming generosity of Albertans during this crisis. Our province has truly pulled together to help Fort McMurray residents in their time of need. I would like to thank the community agencies and municipalities who did a tremendous job of embracing and supporting evacuees. Moving forward, this partnership ensures Fort McMurray families have co-ordinated access to the donations they need to get their families back on their feet.”

Danielle Larivee, Minister of Municipal Affairs

Albertans, businesses and community organizations are encouraged to continue donating essential items, such as:

  • Canned meat
  • Peanut butter
  • Baby food and formula
  • New baby bottles
  • New pillows
  • New towels
  • Basic first aid kits
  • Children’s shoes
  • Sanitary wipes or multi-surface wipes
  • Water

“We have been overwhelmed by the outpouring of support from every corner of the province and further afield. On behalf of Council and residents, I want to thank everyone who has donated to help. Many people lost everything they had and will continue to require support. Albertans are generous people and really step up when times are tough. This support is so greatly appreciated.”

Melissa Blake, Mayor, Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo

“ADRA Canada has been helping people and communities with development projects and humanitarian aid across the globe since 1985. We are proud to partner with the Alberta government and the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo to help residents who have been through a tremendous ordeal.”

James Astleford, Executive Director, ADRA Canada

Albertans who want to donate items for Fort McMurray residents can call 310-4455 for instructions. People interested in volunteering at the Alberta Wildfire Donation Centre operated by ADRA in Edmonton must register online. Donations can also be dropped off in person at the centre, 17306 129 Avenue NW, in Edmonton.

The Alberta government and ADRA Canada will co-ordinate the transportation of items collected by communities that choose to establish designated donation sites. Albertans can visit emergency.alberta.ca for an updated list of the most needed items.

Financial donations are also still being accepted by the Canadian Red Cross.

Backgrounder

ADRA is a humanitarian society operated by the Seventh-day Adventist Church. The non-government organization has international experience providing disaster relief, including during the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina and Hurricane Sandy, and it is recognized by the United Nations Economic and Social Council for its leadership in disaster response.