Local governments and First Nations in the Alberni Valley and on the West Coast have received some provincial funding to improve emergency support services for people evacuated from their homes during emergencies in British Columbia.
The Province of B.C. is providing more than $5 million through the Community Emergency Preparedness Fund (CEPF) for 113 projects across the province. The funding will help communities expand their capacity to provide emergency support services, through volunteer recruitment and retention efforts, volunteer training and the purchase of emergency support service equipment.
The Alberni-Clayoquot Regional District has received $113,300 for group lodging equipment, volunteer personal protective equipment and storage.
Meanwhile, several First Nations in the regional district have also received funding. Huu-ay-aht First Nations has received $38,434 for training, exercises and reception centre and group lodging equipment. Toquaht Nation has received $40,000 for group lodging equipment and training. Tseshaht First Nation has received $23,956 for emergency support services equipment and training, and Ucluelet First Nation has received $39,760 for emergency support services evacuation support trailer equipment.
"Emergency support services play a vital role in community emergency response, providing immediate relief for people impacted by a disaster or emergency," said Josie Osborne, MLA for Mid Island-Pacific Rim. "We’re making sure no community is left unprotected, and every volunteer gets the support they need."
The Community Emergency Preparedness Fund is a suite of funding programs designed to help local governments and First Nations better prepare for disasters and reduce risks from natural hazards in a changing climate. Since its establishment in 2017, the provincial government has committed $369 million into this fund.
