The Rural Municipality of St. Laurent is actively offering support to evacuees affected by the recent wildfires, even though the area itself is not a designated evacuation zone.
Reeve Richard Chartrand says the community is prepared to provide assistance and is calling for volunteers to help with ongoing efforts.
“We started yesterday (Wednesday) and we had zero people show up, but it was our first day to start and we kind of expected that,” Chartrand notes.
“As it stands right now, we’re good for volunteers until at least Sunday, and then we’re going to carry on beyond that. If it turns out that what we’re doing is being utilized, if it’s not being utilized, we’re going to reassess on the weekend.”
Coordination with emergency services and local initiatives
While the RM of St. Laurent does not currently have an official evacuation centre, it has been working closely with MEMO (Manitoba Emergency Measures Organization) and the Integrated Mobilization Force (IMF) to stay informed and ready.
The municipality has registered with the duty office and posted details about its volunteer efforts and available services on Facebook.
Chartrand mentions, “They said they would let us know. They did post on Facebook, our location and what we are offering.”
Though no formal accommodations are available yet, the community is prepared to step up as needed.
Support for evacuees and emergency workers
St. Laurent is positioning itself as a welcoming stopover point for evacuees and emergency personnel heading north.
“This is at least a bit of a buffer where they can go to the washrooms, have a coffee and sit down and talk and have a quick bite to eat before they carry on,” Chartrand explains.
The community is also extending support to emergency workers and others involved in the wildfire response, including hydro workers and conservation officers.
Community response and volunteer donations
The community has responded positively, with several volunteers donating baked goods like cookies and muffins.
Chartrand expresses surprise and gratitude, saying, “I’m very surprised that the amount of volunteers that are stepping up within the community.”
Some local businesses have also offered support; for example, one restaurant volunteered to provide soup and sandwiches.
However, Chartrand explains that due to the low turnout so far, the municipality has declined such donations to avoid waste.
Limited local accommodations already full
The RM of St. Laurent has two small lodging options: the Oak Point Chalet with about 10 rooms and the Petro Canada motel along Highway 6 which offers eight suites.
Both are currently fully booked, according to Chartrand.
How to get involved
Residents interested in volunteering or donating to support the wildfire relief efforts are encouraged to contact Reeve Chartrand directly at 431-292-0062 or phone the RM office at 204-646-2259 during regular business hours.
Volunteers are still welcome through at least Sunday, with plans to reassess as needed.
Although the RM of St. Laurent is not on the major evacuation list, Chartrand stresses the importance of local action.
“Even though we’re not really on the major evacuation list for building and taking major donations, we are working to do our part in this very tragic event.”
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