Emergent, daily items are at the top of the list of things the Grande Prairie Friendship Centre needs to help support wildfire evacuees. Program Coordinator for One Window Resource at the Grande Prairie Friendship Centre Paula Gerlitz says right now those affected are trying to just get their basic needs met, but in the days and weeks to come she expects they will have a better understanding of how to support those affected.
“[Right now] gift cards would be amazing so people could actually go and purchase the things they need,” Gerlitz says. “Otherwise gently used clothing, brand new underwear for all genders and all sizes, hygiene items, those kinds of things.”
Gerlitz adds along with the emergent items they are also trying to help by supplying recourses, including packages which include activities that can be done to pass time during the day, or providing drop-in counselling sessions.
“What an amazing community we live in because everybody is pulling together and so many people are willing to help and donate.”
She says it is humbling to see how those in Grande Prairie community come together in times of need.