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Saskatchewan's generosity was on full display Thursday for the Day of Caring radiothon in support of wildfire evacuees.
The Canadian Red Cross reported receiving $643,156.30 by 5:50 p.m., with donations still flowing in and being accepted until Monday, when the final total will be revealed. The federal government's matching portion will then be added to the total.
Nutrien Ag Solutions matched donations up to $100,000 during the morning portion, and by the end of the day, up its support to $300,000.
"With the public’s overwhelming support and generosity, they were inspired to increase their total donation," said Glenn Rogers, Golden West Broadcasting's Saskatchewan content lead.
Other five-figure donations included $50,000 from Gordon Rawlinson, $25,000 from Trail Appliances, $25,000 from Saskatoon Co-op, $15,000 from the South Saskatchewan Community Foundation, $14,000 from Orano, $10,000 from Sherwood Co-op, and $10,000 from Travelodge Saskatoon.
"The Red Cross team is both overjoyed and overwhelmed by the outpouring of support - donations have been flooding in online and even by individual cheques," said Rogers. "It's a powerful testament to the spirit of Saskatchewan."
Funds raised from the radiothon will help evacuees with immediate and ongoing relief, including financial assistance. It will also aid the communities hosting them. Funding will also be used for recovery and resilience efforts in response to the wildfires, supporting community preparedness, and risk reduction in the future.
Thirty-seven radio stations and 17 online news outlets participated in the day-long initiative.
"Dear media partners, thank you for your incredible support throughout this inspiring Saskatchewan Day of Caring," Rogers said.
Individuals, families, and companies can still contribute to the radiothon by texting RADIO to 45678 to make a $10 donation or by visiting the Canadian Red Cross donation page here.