Canadian Red Cross raises more than $1 million to Tumbler Ridge

TUMBLER RIDGE, B.C. — A charity has raised more than $1 million for the community of the Tumbler Ridge after the mass school shooting. 

The Canadian Red Cross said the funds raised will “support the immediate and emerging needs of the affected individuals and families.” 

Pat Quealey, vice president of Canadian Red Cross in B.C. and Yukon, told Energeticcity.ca: “I’ve been here [Tumbler Ridge] for over a week myself and I’m still…working very closely with the mayor and his team and directly with the community to provide supports.

“We’re in the community supporting the immediate needs and we’ll continue to stand here aligned in the weeks and months to come as people move forward in their recovery.” 

Through the Canadian Red Cross’ Donate to the Tumbler Ridge Tragedy Appeal, the organization has raised more than $1 million, which will support the community’s recovery. 

“As those needs become apparent, we’ll continue to be able to be agile and support [the Tumbler Ridge community],” Quealey said.

The organization has a team on site working closely with the district and the province of British Columbia to assist people impacted by the tragedy. 

“But our teams are very experienced through unfortunately, other tragic events and disasters of many types in doing what we call this direct support to families and people who have been impacted,” he shared. 

Additionally, the Red Cross is offering confidential appointments to support individuals and families. 

“Our assistance may include financial support, help, navigating additional resources, referrals to community services as well as psycho-social and well being support,” Quealey stated. “A main focus right now…is supporting ceremonial or funeral costs as people are going through this very difficult time.” 

The organization sees its “approach and services” as a good option for people. 

He added: “It’s very important for us as a humanitarian organization to reach out to communities and people in times of need. 

“We see our approach and services [as] being a really good option for people to be able to channel their heartfelt energy and interest to support Tumbler Ridge in the ways that we can best help on the ground and have immediate impact, directly interacting with impacted families.” 

To donate to the Canadian Red Cross’ Tumbler Ridge Tragedy Appeal, click here.

Individuals impacted by the tragedy can reach out to the Canadian Red Cross for support by email: TumblerRidgeSupport@redcross.ca or by calling 250-315-5938.