Individuals from various communities are coming out in support of those affected by the fire. The South Asian community is offering free rooms, and gas in case their cars are running low.
Guru Nanak Sikh Society Gurdwara in Edmonton says people in the congregation — and outside of it — are offering rooms in their homes or places to park campers.
“We just want to make sure that if anyone’s kind of in a gap situation, that they’re not going to be homeless for even one night, make sure that there’s space for them to stay. So, as people call in especially over the course of today, we’ll be coordinating with them,” says society volunteer Arundeep Singh Sandhu
Sandhu has many friends who have had to evacuate due to the fire.
“So it’s going to be tough. I think there’s going to be a lot of healing that’s going to need to come after this in addition to the rebuilding and I’m glad to see that we’re all willing to step up and help people right now, and I hope that we can keep up with that as these people readjust to life back in Fort McMurray after the fire.”
JUSTIN TRUDEAU OFFERS FULL FEDERAL ASSISTANCE TO FIRE-RAVAGED FORT MCMURRAY
OTTAWA — Prime Minister Justin Trudeau says the federal government will provide all possible assistance to Alberta as wildfires ravage Fort McMurray.
Trudeau is telling his caucus that Canada is a country of people who support each other in difficult times.
Members of 417 Combat Support Squadron prepare to depart for Fort McMurray at 4 Wing Cold Lake, AB #yymfires pic.twitter.com/5GYLYrXpCv
— Canadian Forces (@CanadianForces) May 4, 2016
The prime minister says he has already spoken to Alberta Premier Rachel Notley to offer his government's support.
What form that will take — at least on the military side — is still being determined and National Defence is expecting to hear soon from the province about the kind of equipment and personnel required.
Tonight I spoke with Premier Notley and offered our government’s support to the people of Fort McMurray. We stand ready to help. #ymmfire
— Justin Trudeau (@JustinTrudeau) May 4, 2016
Defence Minister Harjit Sajjan, in a conference call from Germany early today, confirmed a formal request for assistance has been received from the Alberta government.
The office of Public Safety Minister Ralph Goodale, the federal focal point for assistance, is expected to provide more details later today.