After the fires that ravaged the area in May, and the floods that swept through in August, Fort McMurray’s residents have had a tough year.
Now, in the run up to Christmas, charities in the region say they are seeing an unprecedented demand for their services.
Many families are still unable to return to their homes after the devastation of the fires and flooding, and are leaning on charities and food banks.
Santas Anonymous, one of Fort McMurray’s largest holiday charity drives, is expecting to fill around 1,000 hampers this year – up from 600 last year,
CBC News reports.
“There’s a lot more people that will be in need than there were last year so we are just trying to do the best job we can,” Kael King, volunteer at the charity, said.
And Fort McMurray’s food bank has urged families not to be embarrassed to seek help as demand for its services rises above the usual level.
On average, 60 new families each month are now flocking to the food bank, which has also seen a rise in donations despite the tough conditions for many.
“If you’re struggling, we are here to help you. And we will do everything we can to help you,” Arianna Johnson, executive director of the Wood Buffalo Food Bank, told
CBC. “We want you to reach out and ask for that help.”
Alberta’s Health Service has also said that it expects a higher number of referrals this year, as the stress of the recovery from the wildfires piles on top of the pressure of the holidays.
Dr. Sandra Corbett, a psychiatrist and head of mental health services for the region, commented: “When there is that expectation that people should be happier and celebrating, it could become more acutely obvious to people that they are not doing as well.”
Related stories:
Wawanesa: We could have done better in Fort McMurray
Fort McMurray wildfire spending recovery revealed
