Red Cross fundraising efforts to help Jasper wildfire victims continue to build momentum

Radio stations, bottle depots and Tim Hortons locations in Alberta have joined a growing list of groups raising money for Jasper wildfire victims.

Radio stations and bottle depots took part in the Alberta Day of Caring for Jasper on Wednesday to help support those affected by last week's devastating fire, which consumed about one-third of the picturesque town.

The money collected will be directed to the Canadian Red Cross, with matching funds provided by the provincial and federal governments, the Red Cross said on its website.

“Donations to the Canadian Red Cross will be used for assisting those impacted in Jasper and other affected areas in Alberta with immediate and ongoing relief, including financial assistance, support to evacuees and the communities hosting them, recovery and resilience efforts in response to the wildfires, as well as supporting community preparedness and risk reduction for future all-hazard disaster events within Alberta,” the Red Cross said.

Those who wish to donate can also take empties to any bottle depot in the province as part of the Alberta Day of Caring.

“Simply say, `these are for Jasper' when you bring your bottles to the depot,” the Red Cross said.

Meanwhile, Tim Hortons locations in Alberta will sell a $2 fundraising doughnut from Aug. 12 to 18.

“Local Tim Hortons restaurant owners have been donating food and beverages to first responders and evacuation centres since the heartbreaking wildfires first broke out in Jasper, and right across Alberta, Tims owners have wanted to lend their support,” Jason Gash, general manager of Western Canada for Tim Hortons, said in a written statement Wednesday.

All proceeds will also be directed to Red Cross relief efforts for Jasper wildfire victims.

“The needs of the people impacted by the wildfires that destroyed many parts of the Jasper area will continue to emerge in the weeks and months ahead,” Canadian Red Cross chief of emergencies Amy Avis said in the same statement.

“The Red Cross is committed to working with the community of Jasper, Indigenous leadership and all levels of government to help individuals and families as they recover.”