EDMONTON – Alberta is organizing a centralized donation program for residents of fire-ravaged Fort McMurray. The province said it will avoid mistakes from the Slave Lake fire when new clothes ended up in the garbage dump.
Municipal Affairs Minister Danielle Larivee said if Fort McMurray receives more donations than needed, items will be redirected to other charities.
Larivee said the province is partnering with the Adventist Development and Relief Agency to co-ordinate donations.
Items still being accepted include gently used furniture, food, bedding, baby food, bottles and formula.
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There has been an outpouring of donations since last month’s fire, which destroyed one-tenth of the city and forced more than 80,000 people to flee.
A similar show of support followed a fire that destroyed parts of Slave Lake in 2011, but some donations, including new children’s clothing, were later found in a landfill.
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 Ave. NW, in Edmonton. For a list of the most-needed items, visit the Alberta government’s website.
Financial donations are still being accepted by the Canadian Red Cross.
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