Supporting The Community Of Jasper, Alberta, After Wildfires Devastate The Area.
Our condolences go out to everyone affected by the Jasper Wildfires.
On Monday, July 22nd, Parks Canada reported two wildfires burning within Jasper National Park- both north and south of the townsite. Before the night was over, the entire town and surrounding areas were ordered to evacuate, totalling around 25,000 people who had no choice but to leave their homes behind with little notice.
By the evening of July 24th, the wildfires had reached the town of Jasper, merging into one large fire that wreaked havoc on the town. The 300-400 foot flames approached the town at a speed of 15 meters per minute, thanks to strong winds.
Over the last week, local first responders worked valiantly to try to suppress the fires. So far, 30% of the infrastructure in Jasper, Alberta have been reduced to foundations, with 358 of the town’s 1,113 structures being completely destroyed- including the home of the fire chief. Click here to view the high-resolution map showing the structures that have been destroyed in the last week.
A few years ago, our family had a chance to visit the area of Jasper National Park and our breath was taken away by the beauty of the landscape. It absolutely breaks our hearts to even begin to imagine what the area could look like now.
We know what it’s like to lose everything in an instant, and we also know that the fastest and most direct way to help those affected is to raise money. So, to help citizens of Jasper during this devastating time, we will be donating 100% of proceeds from our new Alberta Bar to the Red Cross Alberta Wildfires Appeal. The Government of Canada and the Government of Alberta will each be matching every donation to this relief fund. This means that, for every dollar donated to the Red Cross Alberta Wildfires Appeal, an additional $2 will be donated to match.
Please note, we have limited supplies available and we will sell these bars until they are all gone. With the release of a new product, we can only produce so many bars.
To maximize your support- we’ve created a donation portal with the Canadian Red Cross. Donate directly through the donation page or buy Alberta Bars to help the Canadian Red Cross to assist those impacted in Jasper and other affected areas with immediate and ongoing relief.
Money raised will enable the Canadian Red Cross to offer financial assistance, support to evacuees and the communities hosting them, recovery and resilience efforts in response to the wildfires, as well as supporting community preparedness and risk reduction for future all-hazard disaster events within Alberta.
Image courtesy of CTV News Edmonton