YELLOWKNIFE—In response to devastating wildfires that have forced the evacuation of the northern Prairie communities of Flin Flon, Manitoba, and La Ronge, Saskatchewan, United Way NWT announced today that it will be making donations to the Saskatoon United Way’s Fire Evacuee Fund and the Canadian Red Cross’s Manitoba Wildfires Appeal, which are supporting local emergency response efforts on the ground.
“In 2023, when wildfires devastated our communities and forced thousands of people across the Northwest Territories to evacuate, our response and recovery efforts were made possible thanks to the outpouring of support from Canadians across the country,” said Ben Linaker, Chair of United Way NWT Board.
“Now, as communities in Manitoba and Saskatchewan face the same hardship, we feel it is important to stand in solidarity with our northern neighbours and offer support in their time of need.”
Traditionally, funds raised by United Way NWT have only supported initiatives and organizations within the Territory. The Board’s decision to extend support beyond our borders underscores the deep connections and shared experiences of northern and remote Canadian communities, many of which face similar vulnerabilities and difficulties in times of crisis.
“As a northern organization that has seen firsthand the profound challenges of wildfire response and recovery here in the NWT, we understand how difficult this work can be, and how vital financial support is,” said Linaker. “We encourage residents of the NWT, and partners across our networks, to join us in supporting the people of Flin Flon, La Ronge and all communities currently being threatened by wildfires as they navigate this challenging moment and begin the path to recovery.”
– 30 –
About United Way NWT
United Way Northwest Territories exists to promote the capacity of people across the North to care for one another. Through grants, capacity-building efforts, and emergency response programs, United Way NWT supports local non-profits and charities in addressing social challenges and building stronger communities. To learn more, visit https://nwt.unitedway.ca/.
Media Contact:
Linda Bussey – Executive Director, United Way NWT
ED@nwt.unitedway.ca | 1 (867) 669-7986
