Update: May 20, 2016 - 4:04 p.m.
Residents whose homes were lost in the fire - Document with updated information regarding how, and when, donations can be accessed, as well as additional information:
How can you help the Fire Evacuees?
- Cash donations: Please call Sources at 604.538.2522.
- Offers of accommodation/housing or Furniture: Please call the Recreation and Culture Department at 604-541-2199
- Donations of NEW toiletries, NEW bedding, NEW pillows, NEW towels, NEW underwear- can be dropped off at the First United Church(15485 Semiahmoo Ave) on the following days:
- Fri May 20 – 9am-5pm
- Sat May 21 – 9am -5pm
- Tues May 24- Fri May 27 – 9am -5pm
- Clothing donations: not needed at this time.
Update: May 17, 2016 - 12:45 p.m.
Residents whose homes were lost in the fire are welcome to pick-up clothing and toiletries at First United Church as follows:
- First United Church, 15485 Semiahmoo Avenue at the following hours:
- Tuesday May 17, 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
- Wednesday May 18, 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
- Thursday May 19, 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Free Counseling continues to be available to community members impacted by the fire. To access this service, please call Sources BC at 604.538.2522.
Update: May 17, 2016 - 10:47 a.m.
Residents impacted by the fire may contact the City of White Rock Fire Hall at 604.541.2125 for inquiries.
Information for Public/Organizations wishing to make a donation, or offer assistance may contact/visit the following:
- Cash or monetary donations: Contact Sources Foundation at 604.531.6226, visit Sources BC, or give in person to Sources Community Resource Centre at 882 Maple Street, White Rock
- Accommodations or Services to donate to fire victims: Contact the City's Recreation and Culture switchboard at 604 541 2199
- Clothes (gently used or new), shoes, toiletries, blankets and towels:First United Church (15385 Semiahmoo Avenue) is accepting donations. Drop-off can be made to the basement of the church during these hours only:
- Tuesday May 17, 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
- Wednesday May 18, 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
- Thursday May 19, 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Those who have items to donate, but are unable to drop-off during these hours, may contact the City's Recreation and Culture Switchboard at 604.541.2199 for further information.
Furniture donations: We kindly request that furniture donations be held at this time until further information is received with respect to where these items can be dropped-off. Please continue to check our website for updates, or you may contact 604.541.2199 if you do not have access to the internet.
Update: May 16, 2016 - 4:10 p.m.
Citizens or organizations interested in assisting or supporting the residents of White Rock that have been impacted by the recent fire can provide financial support by contacting:
Cash donations are welcome and can be dropped off at 882 Maple Street, White Rock, BC
We thank you for your assistance and taking part in our communities' spirit of caring.
Update: May 16, 2016 - 4:08 p.m.
Information for Document Replacement (Credit Cards, Passport, Social Insurance Card, etc.)
Update: May 15, 2016 - 7:26 p.m.
Impacts of the fire on air quality: Residents of some parts of White Rock may have noticed a deterioration of their air quality as a result of the fire. Although there has been some visible improvement, the concentration of fine matter continues to vary by area and may be dependent on elevation.
Poor air quality may cause individuals to experience symptoms such as shortness of breath, coughing and wheezing. Infants, the elderly, and individuals with heart conditions, lung diseases and diabetes, or other chronic conditions are at greater risk from the effects of smoke exposure. They may also experience a worsening of existing respiratory or cardiovascular conditions.
Staying indoors with windows closed and in air conditioned spaces helps to reduce fine particulate exposure. Reduce or reschedule strenuous activities if you experience symptoms such as coughing and throat irritation, or if your breathing is affected.
If your breathing is affected, please seek medical care as soon as possible.
Update: May 15, 2016 - 7:12 p.m.
This is to advise that the immediate needs of all residents impacted by the fire have been met and we appreciate the generosity of those who have reached out.
Update: May 15, 2016 - 5:12 p.m.
If you are wanting to help the victims of the fire on Pacific Avenue, through making a contribution here. Thank you.