Life, and ‘the Beast’ wildfire that ravaged northern Alberta has moved on, and while it still continues to threaten the livelihoods and wellbeing of countless Albertans in its march across the province, the wildfire is no longer a monster creating its own weather — at least in the Fort McMurray area.
Yes, it is still burning and has already consumed more than 500,000 hectares of land, and it is still considered to be ‘burning out of control’.
In Fort McMurray however, the more than 88,000 displaced residents are looking forward to returning to what is left of their city and fundraising efforts, which raised tens of millions of dollars, is being put towards rebuilding, shelter and basic necessities like the restoration of utilities.
None of it could have been done without the generosity of people such as yourselves, dear readers.
Short of knocking on every single door, whether private or business, it is difficult to know the exact number raised by this community.
However, the decision to not run a glorified list of names was made in an effort to avoid singling out any one particular individual, and have others feel they were left out.
That was never the intention.
It is sad that it requires dire situations and times of great struggle for people to come together; the evidence is readily apparent in the ways we’ve seen here in Barrhead and to no less-extent, the province during this particular crisis.
The point is, however, that we do.
You fine people deserve a clap on the back and a hearty thank you.
True, the province itself allocated money to assist Fort McMurray and would have done so regardless of the public’s interest or involvement, but the process by which the livelihood and wellbeing of those 88,000 people affected will be hastened along now due to your donations.
As we have stated in editorials and personal opinion columns before in the Barrhead Leader, it is impressive to see such a continuous stream of generosity and kindness towards our neighbours.
Keep up the great work Barrhead.
