THUNDER BAY – Canadian Red Cross volunteers are providing assistance as flooding from the Albany River is forcing evacuations from the community of Kashechewan and other communities along the James Bay coast remain under flood watch.
The Red Cross is working closely with provincial and municipal officials to support the needs of more than 600 people being evacuated to Thunder Bay and Greenstone. Volunteers are registering evacuees and providing for personal needs such as baby supplies and hygiene items.
“Our volunteers are committed to ensuring people have their basic needs taken care of while being separated from their homes and loved ones,” said Louise Geoffrion, provincial director of disaster management for the Canadian Red Cross in Ontario.
The Red Cross has also implemented a Central Registration and Inquiry Bureau (CRIB) to assist those looking for family members who have been evacuated. The CRIB can be reached at 1-866-797-8875.
“We know that evacuations such as these can cause a great deal of stress for families and we want to alleviate that by helping families stay connected,” said Geoffrion.
The Canadian Red Cross responds to thousands of disasters each year ranging from house fires to winter storms and flooding. The work of the Red Cross is made possible due to a network of trained and dedicated volunteers and the generous support of Canadian individuals and corporations.
