A CASCADE OF GENEROSITY

It’s not the infamous Ice Storm of 1998, or the horrific Fort McMurray wildfires of 2016, or the devastating Saguenay deluge of 1996. But hundreds of families have been devastated by days of rain and flooding along the Ottawa and Gatineau Rivers, and they — along with people elsewhere in Quebec, Ontario and the Maritimes — are facing serious damage to homes and properties. Some have lost almost all their possessions. People will be homeless for weeks to come.

At precisely these times, Canadians show their character. Here, for example, is a message on the website of the Constance and Buckham’s Bay Community Association: “If you are affected by the flood always remember, you are not alone, people want to help. If you need anything, just ask!”

This community group, and many others, are maintaining lists for people who need fuel for their pumps and generators, or extra sandbags, or groceries. In fact, the association is even offering dry socks. As in other flood-drenched pockets of eastern Ontario and Western Quebec, it has information on places people can get free food and drink, washrooms and shelter. If you were lucky enough to rescue your clothing, they’ll even find someone to do your laundry. That’s neighbourliness.

And it’s typical. All over Eastern Ontario and Western Quebec, volunteers, including area MPs and other elected officials, have lined up to stack sandbags and offer shelter. In one area, volunteers served more than 1,000 meals in a single day. Fast food outlets offered free sustenance. A man who lost a barn in a storm years ago ushered boats full of sandbags to houses in the Pontiac. “We all need to help our neighbours,” he said. About 1,500 members of the Armed Forces have pitched in in Quebec, and Public Safety Minister Ralph Goodale said the federal government had located 250,000 sandbags for Ontario. He also made it clear the government will provide more assistance if requested.

No fewer than eight federal departments are already involved, from Environment Canada to Transport Canada and the public health agency. Goodale said Monday the issue of who pays for what will be resolved later, after everyone is safe, dry and sheltered.

That’s when things will get toughest. Once the cameras are gone and the breathless social media feeds are silent, we tend to forget this is a long-term problem for our neighbours.

Mayor Jim Watson says volunteers will likely be needed for the next several weeks.

In the meantime, no need to gawk. If you are not on the scene to help out, please go home.

When you get there, take the time to make a donation to help those without a house to go to.