The City of Calgary opens reception centre in support of wildfire evacuees
The City of Calgary has opened its Emergency Operations Centre and activated its Municipal Emergency Plan in support of the province and Alberta wildfire evacuees. Today, at 9am the City of Calgary opened a reception centre to provide access to accommodations for evacuees and their pets as well as and mental health supports.
“We are fortunate to be able to leverage our partnerships to support those that have been displaced by the wildfires and are experiencing a difficult time.” says Chief Sue Henry, Calgary Emergency Management Agency. “Our hearts are with those that are having to go through this and in addition to their physical needs, we feel it important to address the emotional aspects to the situation as well.”
While all evacuees are encouraged to register online, if in need of accommodation they are able to access support at the Calgary reception centre at the Stampede Grandstand (2200 Stampede Trail SE), from 8:00am to 8:00pm until further notice. Parking for evacuees access the reception centre is free.
If in need of temporary income support, evacuees can call the provincial emergency income support contact centre at 1-866-644-5135 (option 4).
In addition to the Reception Centre, The City is providing additional resources as requested by the province.
Today, The City deployed three fire engines and 27 firefighters to support firefighting efforts in the Grande Prairie area.
On Sunday, May 7, Canada Task Force 2 deployed 13 personnel to the Parkland County and High Level areas. They will be serving in various roles in the Emergency Operations Centre and Incident Command Posts.
“This is a quickly evolving situation, and we are willing and ready to provide additional supports when and where required,” says Chief Henry. ”We are no stranger to these types of challenges and understand the importance of working together at times like these.”
We know Calgarians are generous and want to help our neighbours who are impacted by these wildfires. Please continue to check the province’s website for recommended organizations to donate to or find a local campaign that you would like to support.
Please do not bring any donations to the reception centre in Calgary. We are not set up to take donations and get them to those who could benefit.
Updates will be provided as required.
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