BIRD’S POINT – The Red Cross reception centre was relocated from Stockholm, Sask., to Bird’s Point Sunday, so residents could better access support after severe weather overnight, which forced at least 20 people out of their homes.
“I’ve been coming to this lake since 1960,” said Bill Plumb. “Never in my lifetime have I seen this lake at this level.”
Plumb’s home is one of several near Round Lake that sustained damage. His boat house was completely submerged in water.
The lake rose 5 cm overnight, breaking previous water level records. There is concern waves could affect homes nearby.
“There’s really nothing to hold them back other than some footings, and that can be undermined just with some wave action,” said Plumb.
Blaine Hill spent his Sunday adding sandbags to his growing barricade between his home and the lake. While his home is on his mind, he is also concerned for the elderly residents.
“They have all the paperwork they need to fill out in order to get the assistance for them for housing and stuff like that. But at their age, they don’t know how to do it and don’t want to do it. It’s a burden on them,” he said.
The Red Cross reception centre was moved to the West End Resort and Campground.
“Everything else is flooded and we’re the only ones still standing and dry,” said Debbie Kuzub, manager of the facility.
And there is work to be done to ensure the hall stays that way.
“We’re going to start building a berm, we’re going to take out three or four trees, here,” said Willy Zubub, the owner of the facility.
Residents say the sense of community has never been stronger but, just like the shoreline and roads, patience is wearing thin.
“Stressed, tired. I’ve still got a company to run and trying to do that at the same time as trying to save my house. And I miss my kids, they’re with their mom. It’s rough, but you got to get through it,” said Hill.
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