More financial support coming for B.C. wildfire evacuees, province says

The B.C. government says it is teaming up with theCanadian Red Crossto provide financial help toBritish Columbiansaffected by the hundreds of wildfires that scorched homes and forced evacuations across the province this summer.

In a statement Wednesday, the province announced itspartnership with the humanitarian charitableorganizationto provide additional fundingto eligible B.C. households, but each can access just one of the three newstreams.

"Many British Columbians were impacted by this summer's wildfires, and this funding will provide some much-needed financial relief for people who experienced losses or frightening disruptions to their daily lives,"said Forests Minister Katrine Conroy.

1 of 3 funding streams

The first stream is being made available to wildfire victims whose primary residences were severely affected. Each household is eligible to receive $2,000 based on structural loss information provided by Emergency Management B.C.

The second stream, also$2,000, is being made available to eligible households who were evacuated from the Lytton region in June. The majority of structures in that town were destroyed when a wildfire ripped through in a matter of hours.

Two people died as they tried to escape the blaze.

The third is for any B.C. household that was under mandatory evacuation order for longer than 10 consecutive days during this years wildfire season. A total of$1,200 is being made available to eligible households.

Register with Red Cross

The statement said evacuees must register with the Red Cross by calling 1-800-863-6582 between the hours of 8a.m., and 8p.m., PT.

The province says accessing these new streams will not affect eligibility for other supports through itsEmergency Support Services program.

"These funds will provide a helping hand as people work through the extraordinary challenges that come with such a stressful and traumatic time," said Mike Farnworth, the minister of public safety and solicitor general.

Anyone wishing to make a financial donation to affected British Columbians can do so thoughthe Red Cross,by calling toll free at1-800-418-1111, or by texting the word "FIRES" to45678.