For more than two weeks, First Nations families and communities across the province have been displaced due to the BC wildfires. In the North, many communities have been evacuated with many more on alert. In Prince George, there are an estimated 2,700 evacuees and more than 20 First Nations affected by the wildfires to date.
To support First Nations evacuees in the North, four evacuation sites have been set up and the FNHA has a full team of supports that range from mental health, traditional healers, nursing and evacuation navigation. The local community Health Leadership and local health partners have gathered together to help meet immediate and long-terms support needs at each evacuation site.The FNHA is extremely proud of everyone's efforts—from community volunteers, firefighters, leadership and beyond—to keep everyone safe during the wildfires. Nicole Cross, Executive Director for the Northern Region shares, "I want to acknowledge each of you who continue to lead your community in this difficult time. At times, it may feel you are not doing enough or could be doing more but I continue to be inspired by everyone's efforts, advocacy and leadership."
The FNHA would like to acknowledge the following groups for showing their strength in First Nations communities and stepping up in full support:
• Carrier Sekani Tribal Council (CSTC)
• Chief Ed John
• Lake Babine Nation (LBN)
• Kitsumkalum
• Prince George Native Friendship Centre
• Prince George Nechako Aboriginal Employment and Training Association (PGNAETA)
• BC Assembly of First Nations (AFN)
• Volunteers
In addition, FNHA has partnered and collaborated with other First Nations organizations and the local community to help provide a limited supply of items that include:
• Women's care products
• Baby supplies
• Baby clothing
• Laundry supplies
"Some people have been here for two weeks in the smoke with limited clothing," shares Jessica Mikolayczyk of the FNHA Northern regional team. "Laundry supplies are always running low."
"I'm so proud of the resilience of our First Nations and partner organizations," adds Jessica. "We came together to collaborate to support our people."
We raise our hands in gratitude for the generosity and resilience of all those who are supporting our communities during this time.
