As northern wildfire evacuees continue to settle in Portage la Prairie, Mayor Sharilyn Knox is calling on residents to help meet some immediate, critical needs. A new donation drive is now underway at City Hall to collect essential items for families who were forced to leave their homes behind.
In a public notice issued this afternoon, Mayor Knox outlined a list of urgently needed supplies. All donations must be new, unopened, and have original tags to ensure the health and safety of the recipients.
Urgently needed items include:
- Underwear and socks (all sizes)
- Kids’ bathing suits
- Infant and children’s Tylenol
- Cold medicine
- Enfamil A+ (Stage 1) formula
- Polident and Poligrip
- Polysporin
- Travel-sized toiletries, including unscented shampoo, conditioner, and deodorant
- Peanut-free, pre-packaged snacks (including diabetic-friendly)
- Bottled water
- New umbrella strollers
The city also reminds donors that homemade food or treats cannot be accepted due to food safety regulations.
Donations can be dropped off at Portage la Prairie City Hall, which will remain open until 7 p.m. today for collection.
“Let’s take care of our guests with dignity, safety, and kindness,” Mayor Knox says. “Thank you for showing up with compassion and care.”
Community support is vital, with over 260 evacuees from communities such as Flin Flon, Cross Lake, and Pukatawagan now in temporary accommodations in Portage.
A volunteer callout has also been issued for faith or community groups to assist during this time. For details, email m.kozar@portagecrc.com