Over $40,000 has been raised by real estate agents across Metro Vancouver for the Red Cross BC Fires Appeal, in an effort to aid victims of the ongoing wildfires affecting communities across British Columbia.
Through the REALTORS Care® initiative, members of the Real Estate Board of Greater Vancouver (REBGV) donated $10,000 to the cause, with the BC Real Estate Association (BCREA) matching the donation and Board members continuously raising money by organizing fundraising events around the province.
“The people in the affected communities are in need and it’s incumbent on all of us to do what we can to help where we can,” Jill Oudil, REBGV president said. “It’s great to see our communities come together during this time. I’ve heard from Realtors across the country who are contributing money and fundraising. I encourage everyone to continue this work to support our fellow British Columbians.”
The Greater Vancouver Home Builders' Association (GVHBA) and the Urban Development Institute (UDI) also joined the efforts, taking part in the Here4BC online fundraising campaign, a nation-wide effort by the Canadian construction industry to raise $1 million for the Fires Appeal. Fifty-six construction companies and associations have donated to the cause, raising over $124,000 thus far.
Bob de Wit, GVHBA CEO, says the wildfire devastation really hits home for members. “Our members’ passion is in building homes and neighbourhoods for families, so seeing the incredible losses experienced by these communities has spurred many members to ask us, ‘How can we help?’ We’re proud to be part of this important initiative,” says de Wit.
Donations made to the Red Cross BC Fires Appeal help provide immediate supplies such as blankets, cots, family reunification and financial assistance for food, clothing and personal needs.
Click here to donate or text, FIRES to 45677 to donate $10 to the Red Cross BC Fires Appeal. The online Here4BC fundraising campaign will run until August 31.
