St. John's couple plans to turn wedding into Fort McMurray fundraiser

Moved by the pictures and stories coming out of Fort McMurray,a St. John's couple plans to use theirwedding reception to help raise money for those affected by fire.

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"I have a few friends up there who have now been evacuated," said groom-to-be Chris Mouland.

"One has already lost his home officially, and another is leaving town with the full expectation of losing his home and it not being there when he comes back."

"I feel pretty awful about it," Mouland told CBC News when asked about his thoughts on the wildfire scenes.

"It's heartbreaking."

On Saturday, Mouland willmarry Michelle Hillier. Shortly after saying their 'I Do's,' the couple has decided to put out a donation box to try and raise funds from the 150 invited guests.

That's just the sort of thing the staff at the Canadian Red Cross in St. John's want to hear.

With tens of thousands of Fort McMurray residents displaced, the Red Cross is asking people in Newfoundland and Labrador to help.

"We are encouraging people to donate to the Canadian Red Cross," provincial director Rhonda Kenney said.

"To support the individuals who have been directly impacted by this very devastating disaster."

Kenney said at this point, there's no need for goods, such as blankets, clothing or food.

Officials on the scene in Fort McMurray will determine what is needed, and Kenney said money from the Canadian Red Cross will be used to buy it.

Kenney said it's not justcash people powerwill also be needed.

There are over 300 disaster response volunteers in Newfoundland and Labrador, some of whom could be called to head west in the next couple of days.