Fort McMurray fire: Ottawa to match donations to Red Cross

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau confirmed in the House of Commons on Thursday morning that his government will match individual donations made to the Red Cross in support of relief efforts in Fort McMurray.

The prime minister again offered his support to the families affected by the ongoing crisis in Alberta.

If you would like to help the people of ‪‎Fort McMurray, text REDCROSS to 30333 to make a $5 donation or visit redcross.ca to make a donation online.

WATCH: Intense video shows Beacon Hill resident fleeing as Fort McMurray wildfire rages

3:00 Intense video shows Beacon Hill resident fleeing as Fort McMurray wildfire rages – Part 3

“I think this is a fantastic way for the country to come together,” said interim Opposition leader Rona Ambrose in response to Trudeau’s announcement. “So I thank them for moving forward with this.”

Ambrose then asked the government to keep Fort McMurray as “a top priority as they make announcements and make decisions for infrastructure” considering the widespread damage to property in the Albertan city.

“This party on this side of the House will support him every step of the way.” Ambrose said. “It’s a tough day for Albertans but we will persevere.”

Tweet This Click to share quote on Twitter: "This party on this side of the House will support him every step of the way." Ambrose said. "It's a tough day for Albertans but we will persevere."

Ambrose’s voice shook with emotion as she spoke, and Trudeau immediately crossed the floor and embraced the MP for Sturgeon River-Parkland as she completed her statement.

WATCH: Fort McMurray wildfire: Fleeing residents describe ‘never-ending evacuation’ as fire grows

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NDP leader Mulcair was also very supportive of the decision to match donations, calling it “particularly user-friendly.”

“For Canadians to know that for every dollar that they give, it will be matched by the Canadian government I think should encourage them to give generously,” Mulcair said.

Later in the afternoon, Public Safety Minister Ralph Goodale said there had been no discussion of a cap on the federal Red Cross donation. The important thing is that Canadians know that their donation dollars will be matched, he said.

“The fine details of the duration of this, and so forth, will be worked out in the coming days,” he said.

3:00 Intense video shows Beacon Hill resident fleeing as Fort McMurray wildfire rages – Part 3

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