As wildfires rage across Northern Manitoba, the city of Portage la Prairie is pulling together as a community to help those in need.
On Thursday evening, approximately 260 evacuees arrived in the city after being forced from their homes in communities such as Flin Flon, Cross Lake, and Pukatawagan due to the advancing fires. What began as a temporary setup at the CanadInns Portage Curling Rink has since transitioned into more long-term accommodations at local hotels, offering evacuees more comfort during this difficult time.
Addressing residents, Mayor Sharilyn Knox acknowledges the emotional toll the fires have taken on families across the province.
“It’s heartbreaking, but moments like these show just how strong and compassionate our community is,” Mayor Knox says. "The Province of Manitoba’s Emergency Management Organization (EMO) is leading the response and overseeing the evacuation site here in Portage. Temporary accommodations were initially provided at the CanadInns Curling Rink, where cots and hot meals were made available. By this afternoon, all evacuees were moved to local hotels for more comfortable and longer-term stays."
Related stories:
- Portage stands strong for northern neighbours
- Help for Manitoba wildfire evacuees
- Portage opens shelter for Northern Manitoba evacuees
Helping hands have come from every corner of the community. Long Plain First Nation ensured evacuees had safe transportation, while team members from the Portage Community Revitalization Corporation (PCRC) have been on the ground offering steady support. The Salvation Army pitched in by rounding up volunteers and donating all of the baby formula and diapers they had. The Bear Clan Patrol has been out patrolling with water stations to help keep evacuees hydrated, and the Portage Friendship Centre put together activity kits to keep kids busy during an uncertain time. Cadets from the Manitoba First Nations Police Service (MFNPS) were also on hand to greet evacuees with a warm welcome when they first arrived.
"We are incredibly grateful to the many community partners who stepped up so quickly to help."
While many in the community are asking how they can help, the city is reminding residents to hold off on dropping off donations at the evacuation site. Currently, the best way to support is through monetary donations to the Canadian Red Cross. They’re best equipped to manage supplies and make sure evacuees get what they need, when they need it.
In a time marked by loss and uncertainty, Portage is offering many evacuees a sense of home, something they haven’t felt in days.
"Thank you to everyone who has shown such kindness and support. Our hearts are with the evacuees and the communities they have to leave behind."
Sign up to get the latest local news headlines delivered directly to your inbox every afternoon.
Send your news tips, story ideas, pictures, and videos to news@portageonline.com.
PortageOnline encourages you to get your news directly from your trusted source by bookmarking this page and downloading the PortageOnline app.