Nova Scotia group ready to assist Fort McMurray wildfire victims

Fort McMurray is over 3,000 kilometres away but folks at home in Atlantic Canada are doing what they can to help with wildfire relief efforts.

Relief Packages for Fort McMurray Wildfire Victims Atlantic Canada is a Facebook group that is asking for donations to help residents displaced by a massive wildfire raging through the northern Alberta oilsands community.

North Sydney businesswoman Meghan Farrell created the group Tuesday night.

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"I have some very close friends in Fort McMurray. Last night as everything was unfolding, we learned they lost their entire home and all their personal belongings. As well, other friends of ours learned throughout the day that they lost everything," the mother of five said.

"These are people who left friends and family to go out there and start over and it's devastating that they worked so hard and are now out there with less than what they left with."

She said clothing and personal care items are most needed right now. There are drop-off locations in Sydney, North Sydney, Halifax, Dartmouth and Lower Sackville, and Dieppe, N.B.

Urgent need

Donations are being accepted at the drop-off locations between 6 p.m. and 9 p.m. Wednesday.

Farrell, who owns a horse riding equipment business, said she knew the need was urgent.

"We contacted the Alberta Emergency Management Agency last night at about 11:30 and have been co-ordinating with them. So we are collecting anything that can be shipped out," she said.

"My business ships products across the country so we will be covering the cost. They will be going to Alberta to be dispersed to families in need."

At this time, furniture isn't being accepted, she said.

Red Cross

The Canadian Red Cross has also set up a fundraising appeal for fire victims. Donations, financial only, can be made online or by calling 1-800-418-1111.

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The relief organization is also setting up a toll-free line specifically for those who have been displaced to call and register with key information such as their names, regular address, where they are staying now and contact details.

Welcome home

Oilsands companies were sending workers home to free up lodging for displaced Fort McMurray residents. The flood of departures from Fort McMurray International Airport led to the cancellations of some flight arrivals to free up runway space.

In Halifax, a warm welcome is waiting for returning Nova Scotians, said Peter Spurway, spokesman for the Halifax Stanfield International Airport.

The airport's Tartan Team volunteer hosts will be on hand to offer assistance to arriving workers.

"We will ensure they get a heartfelt and warm welcome home."