RVDA, RV Parks and campgrounds reach out to help Fort McMurray evacuees
Dozens and dozens of Fort McMurray evacuees are making their temporary home at campgrounds and RV parks around Edmonton as they await the green light to be able to return to their homes in northern Alberta, according to a report from the CBC. Alberta's premier, Rachel Notley, is indicating it could be up to two weeks before residents are allowed to re-enter the city.
Through the generosity of campground owners, many parks and campgrounds in the Edmonton area and beyond, have offered steep discounts for Fort McMurray residents who want a campsite of their own.
"They gave us our own little campsite and said we can stay here for weeks," said Pamela Duffett, a hospital worker who escaped from her home when Fort McMurray was ablaze. "I have a comfortable bed to sleep in and I had a yummy meal this morning, so I'm very fortunate compared to some people," Pamela told the CBC.
Her family is staying at the Rainbow Valley Campsite in Edmonton free of charge.
"There's no restriction on the length of stay, [they can stay] until they can pull out and head back north," explained Tim Dea, of the Rainbow Valley campsite, in the CBC interview.
This is in line with news that many campsites and RV parks are offering substantial discounts to help out the evacuees.
The CBC also says that Shakers Acres, in west Edmonton, has taken in 26 families and in Devon, a reception centre with food and toiletries has been set up for the 100 evacuees setting up camp at the Devon Lions Campground.
"There's a lot of caring people in this area," Randy Bertrand, Devon Lions' campground manager, told the CBC.
The RVDA of Alberta has also reached out to Fort McMurray residents with this message,
"On behalf of the RVDA of Alberta and our association members, our thoughts and prayers are with the people of Fort McMurray and surrounding districts. If our members can be of any assistance with helping with your transition to another location or help expediting repairs or have other RV related items that you may require or need looked after please contact the dealership you purchased your unit from and mention you are from Fort McMurray. RVDA of Alberta, on behalf of its members, will donate $5000 to Red Cross and we encourage all our members and other associations to match or exceed the donation amount during this time of need."
The Ontario RVDA also contributed $5000 to the relief efforts.
Hats off to the generosity of campground and RV park owners and managers for helping their neighbours to the north. Share your stories with RVwest about escaping Fort McMurray with your RV or the generosity you are seeing in the RV and camping sector.
