Kamloops expands emergency support services for wildfire evacuees

“Evacuees continue to arrive in Kamloops, with additional arrivals expected in the coming days.”

The city said McArthur Island will have temporary lodging for people if there are no available hotel rooms.

“The facility currently includes 50 beds and can be expanded to accommodate up to 100 guests if required. Evacuees staying at the site have access to portable air conditioning, washroom and shower trailers, and on-site security,” said the City of Kamloops.

“Samaritan’s Purse has been contracted by the Province of British Columbia to establish and operate the group lodging facility.”

Kamloops said its ESS reception centre is open to assist evacuees with accessing emergency support services and applying for supports.

The reception centre will be open until midnight on Friday (July 24) and 9:30 p.m. on Saturday, which are subject to change depending on operational needs.

“Evacuees are encouraged to monitor Emergency Info BC for the most current information regarding evacuation orders, alerts and wildfire-related updates affecting their communities,” said the City of Kamloops.

Residents who want to support evacuees are encouraged to reach out to community groups, non-profit organizations, faith-based organizations and cultural groups that may be coordinating support efforts.

“The city would like to thank residents for their generosity and willingness to support those affected by the wildfire situation. However, the emergency support services reception centre at McArthur Island cannot accept donations of any kind or accommodate walk-in volunteers,” said city officials.

“The primary function of the reception centre is to register evacuees and process applications for emergency support services assistance. This provincially mandated process requires specialized training that cannot be provided during an active emergency response. Additionally, the team does not have the capacity to collect, store or distribute donated goods.”

by Elora McCormack

Kamloops expands emergency support services for wildfire evacuees

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