B.C. floods: Red Cross raises $12 million for flood victims
The outpouring of support from Canadians and B.C. residents for flood victims has been overwhelming. In less than two weeks, the Canadian Red Cross has raised more than $12 million to assist those affected by the extreme weather. That amount will triple with matching donations from the B.C. and federal governments.
"So what's available is $2,000 per household for those households that were evacuated on an evacuation order," said Pat Quealey, Canadian Red Cross vice-president for B.C. and Yukon.
In less than a week, nearly $6 million has been distributed to evacuees.
It didn't hurt that Vancouver native and celebrity Ryan Reynolds made a donation and posted a link to the Red Cross fundraising link on social media.
"It's thanks also to the generosity of all our donors," added Quealey. We're also humbled that folks like Ryan Reynolds are viewing the Red Cross as a credible and important partner in providing these supports."
However, it's not just money being offered. Red Cross workers are on the ground providing other assistance.
"Things like the provision of supplies, cots, blankets, clean up kits, as people anticipate and are being able to start their recovery," said Quealey.
He says the Red Cross has established itself in key centres including Abbotsford, Merritt, Kamloops, Princeton and Chilliwack.
If you would like to donate click here and to register for assistance click here.
CTVNews.ca Top Stories
Asking rent prices up 9.3% across Canada, Ontario sees only decline: report
A new report says the average asking rent for a home in Canada in April was up 9.3 per cent compared with a year ago, while a slight month-over-month increase was also recorded for the first time since January.
What is basic income, and how would it impact me?
Parliamentarians are considering a pair of bills aiming to lift people out of poverty through a basic income program, but some fear these types of systems could result in more taxes for Canadians who are already financially struggling.
'I may have some nightmares:' Man survives being bitten by 2 sharks in Bahamas
A man who was bitten by two sharks in the Bahamas said Thursday he's 'thankful that I'm here' while sharing his story of survival.
Magnitude 4.2 earthquake reported off Vancouver Island's west coast
A 4.2-magnitude earthquake was recorded west of Vancouver Island early Friday morning.
Mexico's president accuses press and volunteer searchers for missing people of 'necrophilia'
The administration of Mexico's president has accused the press and volunteer searchers who look for the bodies of missing people of 'necrophilia,' comments that drew criticism this week.
Rare severe solar storm Friday could bring spectacular aurora light show across Canada
A rare and severe solar storm is expected to bring spectacular displays of the northern lights, also known as aurora borealis, across much of Canada and parts of the United States on Friday night.
Out-of-control wildfire burning near Fort McMurray
As of 9 a.m. on Friday, the wildfire burning 28 kilometres southwest of the northeastern Alberta city was 25 hectares in size.
WATCH Expecting an interest rate cut in June? Don't bet on it after new jobs data
Canada's labour market rebounded in April, adding more than 90,000 jobs, a staggering number of new positions after four consecutive months of little change.
Prince William says wife Kate is 'doing well'
Prince William said on Friday his wife Kate was 'doing well' in a rare public comment about the Princess of Wales as she undergoes preventative chemotherapy for cancer.