The Okanagan Indian Band (OKIB) has received more than $23,000 in community donations to support households affected by the Bradley Creek wildfire.
Habitat for Humanity Okanagan, the Community Foundation of the North Okanagan, the Central Okanagan Foundation, Predator Ridge residents and the kiʔláwnaʔ Stamiya Two Spirit Powwow contributed to the recovery effort.
The Bradley Creek wildfire spread rapidly through Okanagan Indian Band Indian Reserve No. 1 on Aug. 1, forcing residents to evacuate and damaging or destroying homes and other structures.
“The Bradley Creek Wildfire has left lasting impacts on our community and land, which will be felt for years to come,” officials stated in their statement.
The Community Foundation of the North Okanagan and the Central Okanagan Foundation donated $10,000 each.
“We would like to thank Residents of Predator Ridge for their generous donation of $1550,” the OKIB added. Residents and volunteers were able to raise these funds through one of their monthly bottle drives.
Habitat for Humanity was able match the $1550 donation from Predator Ridge residents for a total of $3100.
Dustyn Baulkham and the kiʔláwnaʔ Stamiya Two Spirit Powwow donated $893.15 from an event they hosted.
“It is good to know we have such good neighbours,” Chief Dan Wilson said.
“These organizations are not the only ones to offer their services and support in these difficult times, many individuals and organizations not mentioned here have also stepped up to lend a hand,” the statement read. “To the Okanagan community in general, we would like to thank you for your support and generosity in this time of need.”
The band said the donations will support affected households as the community moves into recovery and rebuilding.
