BCNU Supports Flood Affected Communities in the Province

The devastating British Columbia floods that have ravaged communities in the province have been met with an outpouring of care by nurses in many communities.

"For example, in Grand Forks, many residents walked in waste deep septic water just to make it to the makeshift Emergency Operation Centre in the town's curling rink. There they were met by nurses who assisted with providing onsite medical care, psychological and social support and a hot cup of coffee with something to eat," said Christine Sorensen, President, BCNU.

BCNU members were also filling sandbags and helping to transport them, conducting search and rescue operations and supporting Canadian Red Cross volunteers.

To help people impacted by the flooding, the BC government is encouraging people to donate to the Canadian Red Cross and they will match individual contributions up to a total of $20 million. BCNU members wanting to donate to the dollar-for-dollar donation campaign may do so between May 16 to July 31, 2018.

According to Sorensen, "concerns now mount over the mental health needs of evacuees, nurses and other health care staff as well as the primary care needs of all patients who have been disconnected from their health care providers and may require services".

BCNU will continue to monitor this situation and provide more updates, if needed.

According to EmergencyInfoBC, communities along the Fraser River are on evacuation alerts and orders have been issued as water continues to rise.

To donate:
Go online: redcross.ca
Call 1-800-418-1111
Text BCFLOODS to 30333 to make a $10 donation (billed to your phone)
Contact your local Canadian Red Cross office