Dear Friends,
During this very tense time, we are so grateful for our ever-supportive community, working together to help our members and neighbours affected by the fires. We have had many offers of help from across BC and Canada, including from locals, friends of the community, and Jewish Federation of BC.
The most recent updates offer cautious optimism. Currently, the Bald Range (Summerland) fire is continuing to grow, and the Quilpituk Creek (Vernon area) fire is being held. Evacuation orders remain in place for both areas, and it is clear that the crisis is ongoing.
Members Under Evacuation
We are aware of the community members who have been evacuated from their homes. All of these people have found temporary accommodations, and we continue to be available to help them as needed.
IF YOU ARE AFFECTED BY THE FIRES, please register with Emergency Support Services and the RDOS. Also, download the Alertable app managed by Central Okanagan Emergency Operations. You can find the most up-to-date fire information there, as well.
Our community may be able to help in coordinating assistance, including with emergency accommodations or pets. Please reach out to the OJC office and Chabad House for more information.
Members Wanting to Help
Looking for ways to give? Help is always appreciated.
Volunteer
To volunteer with the regional relief efforts, register in person at Westbank Lions Hall (1223 Water Street, Kelowna). Volunteer opportunities can also be found on the Okanagan Valley Fire Connect, OneSkyCommunity, and HelpSummerland.ca pages.
Monetary Donations
The Jewish Federation of British Columbia and the OJC have started a fund exclusively for wildfire relief.
Donations of Goods
Please DO NOT take donations to the OJC. There are several unofficial collection sites throughout the Valley. The central drop off locations are Westbank Museum (2376 Dobbin Road, West Kelowna; open 9-4 daily) and Kelowna Event Centre (2041 Harvey Avenue, Kelowna; open 3-8 daily). Mamas for Mamas is also accepting some items, check their website for details.
Donations are urgently needed. Please donate per the suggestions below:
Personal Care and Toiletries
Diapers (high priority)
New, unopened toiletries and personal care items
Practical items (laundry, power strips and phone chargers, batteries, paper products, etc.)
Small amount gift cards for larger general stores (Walmart, Superstore, London Drugs, etc.)
Clothing
New or good used condition men’s and children’s clothing (no women’s clothing at this time)
Pets
Pet supplies, especially canned food, leashes, and crates
Food Items
The Central Okanagan Food Bank is the main collection site. They are accepting non-perishable items, and may need help packing hampers. Fresh food is being coordinated by external organizations. Homemade food is not being accepted at this time.
Tikkun Olam in Action
The first responders and evacuees have expressed deep appreciation for all of the volunteers helping to feed and house them. Our community has really stepped up in this regard.
Several of us came together on short notice to support the efforts of people on the front lines in the small ways that we can. Truly, the spirit of tikkun olam is strong here in the Okanagan, and it is heartwarming to see. An enormous yasher koach to everyone who helped prepare and deliver more than 200 vegetarian wraps and organize more than 100 mini kugels, and 200 Bagel Bros. bagels and cream cheese to feed the evacuees and firefighters in the Kelowna and Vernon areas. It may feel like a small endeavour, but the recipients were emotional and very grateful.