The Strathcona Regional District (SRD) has made its way down island, as staff and volunteers lend a helping hand following this month’s extreme weather.
Between Nov. 16 and 20, the SRD says its staff put in over a hundred hours aiding the flood-ravaged Halalt First Nation.
But efforts extended beyond, as volunteers with the local Emergency Support Services (EES) program supported people displaced throughout the Cowichan Valley Regional District.
“Since the recent tragic storm had minimal impact on our Regional District, we have a moral obligation to help our neighbours,” explains SRD chair Brad Unger.
According to officials, EES is the “heart” of emergency response. They help evacuees not only find short-term accommodation, meals and clothing, but reunite families separated by events beyond their control.
“Our ability to provide the best service possible to people who have been displaced and are experiencing trauma is dependent on the amount of professionally trained volunteers available to respond,” says Shaun Koopman, SRD Protective Services Coordinator.
With this in mind, the SRD is now putting out a call for more volunteers.
“For those who are interested in behind-the-scenes initiatives, there are also volunteer positions needed to help ensure resources are ready and plans are prepared,” states an SRD release.
Those interested in learning more about volunteering for the SRD’s EES program can reach out to Koopman at [email protected] or (250) 830-6702. As well, more details can be found here.
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