Three firefighters with Halifax Regional Fire and Emergency work to put out fires in the Tantallon area. (Photo credit: Communications Nova Scotia)
After wildfires tore through Nova scotia earlier this month, people across the country have been stepping up to help those in need.
The United Way Halifax set up the Wildfire Recovery Appeal in the early days of the tragedy. A spokesperson for the organization confirmed with us that as of today, they have raised $1.3 million for the victims of the fires.
Sarah White spoke on behalf of the United Way Halifax. She said that it became obvious to them that they needed to play a role in the recovery effort.
“In particular, we don’t normally serve the area of Shelburne and Barrington, but we felt that we really should take a stand we know we have donors who would want to support the appeal and support people in need,” said White.
And the community did just that.
White says that she and her colleagues were amazed by the amount of donations pouring in from corporations and individual donors alike. Not only did people step up to donate, but many organized fundraisers to contribute to the recovery appeal.
“We had all kinds of really creative fundraisers come in. Everything from kids at a school having a lemonade stand as part of their Spring Fair, they raised $500, to people creating raffle baskets, and concerts,” said White.
One of those concerts was responsible for over $300,000 being raised. The Wildfire recovery Concert held at the Scotiabank Centre on June 9th featured some of the best musical talent the region has to offer. The concert was headlined by Matt Mays, Classified, Jenn Grant, Neon Dreams, Joel Plaskett, and more.
“I thought it was just so moving to see so many people together for one cause in one place at one time. I don’t know that if there’s ever been an event in Halifax it’s really had that same community spirit,” said White.
The funds raised through the recovery appeal are already being dispersed throughout the affected communities. White says the funds are spread across community organizations like registered charities incorporated nonprofits, and indigenous governing bodies who know how to best allocate the money to support those in need.
White says the main part of the fundraising has more or less wrapped up, but the appeal will remain open for anyone who wishes to donate to do so.
If you would like to make a donation, click here.
