Standing with Eabametoong First Nation

When wildfires forced the evacuation of Eabametoong First Nation (Fort Hope), hundreds of community members were relocated to Niagara Falls, far from home and facing uncertainty about when they could safely return.

In moments like these, relationships matter.

Through Beverly Hadland, retired Crossroads Cares Ambassador, Crossroads was able to connect directly with Eabametoong leadership and ask a simple but important question:

“How can we serve you?”

Rather than arriving with our own plans, we listened. Community leaders shared what would be most helpful as they cared for families and managed the challenges of an extended evacuation.

And their number one request was clear:

Prayer.

Crossroads responded by connecting the community with the Crossroads Prayer Line and reaching out to an Anyone Pray partner church in the Niagara region. Together, we helped ensure that families, community leaders and those serving on the frontlines were being lifted up in prayer during an incredibly difficult time.

Trust Opens the Door to Serve

This opportunity did not begin with the wildfire. It was made possible through relationships built over time.

During an evacuation, Eabametoong carefully protects its community by allowing outside organizations to provide support in hotels only when they have been referred by Chief and Council. Because a trusted relationship with Crossroads had already been established, we were welcomed to come alongside the community and respond in a way that respected their leadership and their needs.

This is what your support makes possible.

Your generosity helps Crossroads Cares build relationships with First Peoples communities before a crisis happens, so that when unexpected challenges arise, we can be ready to listen, serve and respond with compassion.

Sometimes that means practical assistance. Sometimes it means connecting people with trusted local partners. And sometimes, as it did in Eabametoong, it begins with the simple but powerful act of prayer.

Together, we can continue building trusted relationships, responding to urgent needs and sharing the hope of Jesus with communities across Canada.

Stand with First Peoples Communities

Your gift helps Crossroads continue walking alongside First Peoples communities and respond when families face urgent and unexpected needs.

Visit crossroads.ca/fpv to learn more and make a gift today.

Thank you for praying, giving and helping make this ministry possible.