Partnering with Integris to Support BC’s Interior
Warm weather and high winds continue to fuel the flames of over 120 fires in British Columbia. Many communities are on Evacuation Alert and over 40,000 people have evacuated for safety in other cities because of the fires. Accordingly, our province has declared a state of emergency for the first time in fourteen years.
Imagine leaving your home with short notice – a fire on your heels. It is impossible to carry all that you need on your back.
Mutual Fire Insurance (MFI) wanted to help families displaced by the fires. We knew a good portion of evacuees fled north to Prince George and we decided to work with our broker partner, Integris Insurance – a division of Integris Credit Union.
A Donation with Impact
Moved by the overwhelming need for help in our communities, MFI stepped forward with a $10,000 donation to care for evacuees in the north. We partnered with Integris as they have strong connections with leaders and charitable organizations throughout the region– specifically in the cities of Prince George, Quesnel, and the Village of Clinton. By letting their connections know they had flexible financial resources, together we have supported relief efforts in unique and responsive ways. So far, we have been able to:
- Deliver food, propane, and gas cards to fire fighters
- Purchase toys, games, and books for young children
- Buy essentials for pets like food, medication, and a refrigerator for medicine storage. Fridge donated to SPCA
- Purchase board games for youth aged 12 to 18
- Purchase water, batteries, and gas cards for the Pet Safe Coalition
Integris also contributed a $5,000 donation to purchase sheet sets and pillows for people using the cots in evacuation centres. While the wool blankets provided by disaster relief services do offer warmth, they can be uncomfortable for some. The sheets and pillows were a welcome relief for the people in the evacuation centres.
People who have been displaced need the resources provided at evacuation centres; however, many of the items Mutual Fire Insurance and Integris provided are not necessarily offered by the Red Cross, Salvation Army, and/or government funds.
Insurance Industry Challenge
Mutual Fire Insurance, together with Integris, challenge the insurance industry to make a donation to a local organization in a city with a crisis centre to help evacuees and first responders. No amount is too small. We encourage you to post to social media and use the hashtag #BCstrong.
