Stand with Us: Making a Difference for Wildfire and Flood Victims

By Bev Hadland,
Ambassador to First Peoples Voices

Our beloved province is facing a tough state of emergency with a staggering 108 wildfires, and unfortunately, 31 of them are still out of control. It’s devastating to think that nearly 30,000 people have been forced to evacuate, and around 50 families have lost their homes. But here’s the incredible part: thanks to the millions of prayers pouring in, all lives have been saved. It’s a true testament to the power of faith and unity!

As I’ve been connecting with the people and communities affected by these wildfires, their top priority is clear: they want their families to be safe, and they want their homes protected. I had the privilege of meeting Chief Raymond Diamond of Fort McKay recently, and let me tell you, he’s a true man of God who radiates love for Jesus.

I met Chief Raymond Diamond in Toronto on May 9th and rejoice that he is a man of God who truly loves Jesus.

Now, you might be wondering, “What can we actually do to help?” Well, let me introduce you to an extraordinary individual named Tyrone Bird. He’s been a volunteer firefighter for almost two decades and has been on the front lines battling these wildfires. Once his own community was secure, he didn’t hesitate to lend a hand in other fire-ravaged areas, helping save homes and providing relief to those in need. When I asked Tyrone how we could support him and his community, he simply said, “Prayer means the world to us right now. We faced the largest fire in 20 years and miraculously didn’t lose a single home.”

Tyrone Bird and some of the Moosomin First Nation volunteer firefighters.

Tyrone Bird and the Moosomin First Nation volunteer firefighters are true heroes, and they deserve our unwavering support. But that’s not all that’s happening. While wildfires ravage Alberta, northern BC, and parts of Saskatchewan, there are also communities in northern Ontario dealing with devastating flooding. Places like Kashechewan and Attawapiskat have been forced to evacuate, leaving hundreds of people, including children and youth, displaced from their homes. It’s heart-wrenching, especially considering this is the second consecutive year they’re facing spring flooding.

But here’s where the power of community comes in. The Hamilton Christian Fellowship has stepped up to the plate, rallying a team of caring adults and youth to support a local church in providing daily activities for the affected kids. When Pastor Lisa reached out to us for toys and games, we wasted no time in taking action. Thanks to our incredible donors, we loaded up a van with games, puzzles, activity books, and toys, bringing smiles and hope to these resilient young hearts.

The dedication of Pastor Lisa Cowling, her son Tirell, her daughter Tiera, and the entire team is truly remarkable. We’re beyond grateful for the generous support from donors like you, who made this initiative possible.

Now, more than ever, we need your partnership to make a real impact in the lives of those affected by these disasters. Here are a few ways you can join us in making a difference:

• Let’s keep praying, my friend! Your prayers mean the world. Our dedicated prayer line is available 24/7 at 1-866-273-4444.
• Lift up prayers for the brave frontline workers and responders. Oh, and don’t hesitate to reach out with a phone call to show your support and offer prayers.
• If you’re able to, consider making a donation to our cause at 1-800-265-3100. Your continued support of First Peoples Voices allows us to be there when we’re needed the most, just like how we supported Hamilton