A handful of Semiahmoo Peninsula business owners, as well as their employees, are doing their best to help Fort McMurray residents who’ve been affected by this month’s wildfire.
Last Wednesday, White Rock’s Charlie Don’t Surf restaurant held a fundraiser to benefit the Red Cross, while two Campbell Heights-based clothing companies – Silver Icing and A52 Warehouse Inc. – are raising funds and supplies to help those in need.
At Charlie Don’t Surf, servers and bartenders donated half their tips from the evening, with the restaurant owner matching employee donations; a donation jar was also set up at the restaurant.
In total, $1,337.40 was raised for Red Cross Alberta, which is aiding in relief efforts regarding the massive wildfire which has been burning for more than a week, and caused thousands of residents to evacuate.
Silver Icing, an online fashion company, held a fundraising campaign through its network of independent ‘stylists’ – many of whom live in Fort McMurray and the neighbouring areas – in which proceeds from the sale of some of the company’s most popular items were donated to the Red Cross. In 36 hours, Silver Icing raised $22,815.
“We have an amazing group of stylists and customers who are caring, generous and supportive and I am beyond proud of what we were all able to achieve in our effort to help those affected by these fires,” said Silver Icing CEO Christina Marcano.
“Our connection to Fort McMurray is strong and we want … the community of Fort Mac to know that we are behind them in every way as they navigate through this devastating time.”
Staff at A52 Warehouse have begun to collect items and supplies which they plan to donate to displaced evacuees – many of whom have lost their homes – through the Edmonton Emergency Relief organization.
As a company in the clothing business, A52 has “the clothing donation side covered,” according to Elliot Markillie, but the company is accepting donations of the following items: bedding, sleeping bags, pillows, cleaning supplies, toilet paper and paper towels, dish cloths and towels, socks and underwear and toiletries, as well as toys, colouring books, crayons and felt pens for children.
Donations will be accepted until Thursday (May 19) and A52 Warehouse (110 2360 192 St.) is open from 8 a.m. until 4 p.m.
To arrange a donation drop-off, call Markillie at 604-881-0251.