Print Text Size: A A

Canadian nurses' unions stand behind the nurses affected by Fort McMurray wildfire

By United Nurses of Alberta May 9, 2016 15:29 (Last updated May 17, 2016 13:50)

Canadian nurses’ unions and the Canadian Federation of Nurses Unions have made significant donations to the Canadian Red Cross for the relief of Fort McMurray, the city’s residents and its dedicated nurses.

“We are very grateful to all the unions and their individual members who have made donations through the Canadian Red Cross to the people and city of Fort McMurray,” said United Nurses of Alberta President Heather Smith today.

So far, Canadian nurses’ organizations have committed to donations to the Canadian Red Cross as follows:

  • United Nurses of Alberta: $10,000
  • Canadian Federation of Nurses Unions: $10,000
  • Ontario Nurses Association: $10,000
  • New Brunswick Nurses Union: $5,001
  • Nova Scotia Nurses Union: $5,000
  • British Columbia Nurses Union: $5,000
  • Manitoba Nurses Union: $5,000
  • Prince Edward Island Nurses Union: $4,600
  • Registered Nurses Union of Newfoundland and Labrador: $2,500
  • TOTAL: $57,101

More donations are expected from other Canadian unions that represent nurses.

In addition, Smith said, UNA is determining how to directly assist the approximately 335 UNA dues-payers who live and work in Fort McMurray. UNA has two locals in the Fort Mac area: Local 96, which represents nurses at the Northern Lights Regional Hospital, and Local 229, which represents Community nurses.

“Alberta nurses are grateful to our colleagues across Canada for their donations,” Smith said. “This tells a powerful story of how Canadians pull together in a crisis.”

The devastating Fort McMurray fire, which was started May 1 southwest of Fort McMurray, resulted in a full-scale evacuation of the city soon after. “We are so proud of the nurses and residents of Fort McMurray for their contributions to ensuring the swift and save evacuation of Fort McMurray and area,” Smith said.

The provincial government is providing an initial $1,250 per adult and $500 per dependent to cover living expenses for those who have evacuated.

Many Fort McMurray residents are living with friends, relatives and in volunteer-run receiving centres elsewhere in Alberta. 

~