Boston Bar – Brad Vis, Member of Parliament for Mission—Matsqui—Fraser Canyon, released the following statement on the ongoing wildfires devastating the town of Lytton and neighbouring communities:
“I stand with the people of Lytton during this time of unimaginable grief. We are stunned by the widespread devastation to homes and businesses, and we mourn the loss of at least two community members. Thank you to the first responders who continue to work around the clock to save lives and homes during an already devastating wildfire season. We will rebuild – that is not in question – but right now we need to focus on reunifying families and supporting those that have lost everything.
“I have been seized with supporting the residents of Lytton, Lytton First Nation, and all those affected in the surrounding area. I am in regular contact with MLA Tegart, Mayor Polderman, Chief Webster, Chief Pasco, Acting Chief Haugen, Thompson-Nicola Regional District officials, and many others. I have visited those directly affected by the fires at the Merritt Emergency Operations Centre, as well as other informal evacuee gathering points in Boston Bar and Sts’ailes First Nation.
“Federally, I am in contact with Public Safety, Transport Canada, National Defence, and Indigenous Services Canada to press for every available support.
“I sincerely appreciate the outpouring of messages of support and interest from media, constituents, and many others that my office has received. I encourage everyone to stay safe – please refer to EmergencyInfo BC for the latest updates, evacuation orders and alerts. I want to thank again, all of those who are stepping up to help and support the affected communities.
How you can help:
- Gift-cards for popular restaurants, big box stores, and gas stations are the most convenient and direct way support can be provided to those in immediate need:
- Official provincial Emergency Operations Centres (EOC) are the best recipients and distributors of these funds and their locations are found here.
- Alternatively, you may drop-off donations at my office and we will pass them on to the EOCs.
Key Contacts:
- BC Evacuees Assistance Tool: https://ess.gov.bc.ca
- Provincial Emergency Support Services (ESS): 1-800-585-9559
- Red Cross Family Reunification: 1-800-863-6582 (8am – 8pm)
