WILDFIRES – Kamloops ESS puts out call for more volunteers

Kamloops Emergency Support Services is calling for more volunteers.

ESS provides short-term assistance to those forced from their homes because of wildfires.

Volunteer training has been scheduled for Aug. 7-14. Volunteers will be working directly with evacuees to support their ESS registration and provide referrals to necessary supports.

Volunteers must be:

– comfortable working on computers

– comfortable speaking directly with evacuees over the phone

– able to complete the necessary ESS training

– able to obtain a Police Information and Vulnerable Sector Check

If you are interested in becoming an ESS volunteer, visit Kamloops.ca/ESS to complete the application form.

The Kamloops ESS helps those who have been displaced from their homes and directed to Kamloops to get access to food, lodging, clothing, emotional support, and family reunification.

“Our Emergency Support Services volunteers and staff are well trained to work in our virtual reception centre.

“We want to reassure Kamloops residents and our regional friends that evacuees are being assisted with expertise, experience, and diligence to support the residents of Kamloops and our regional partners,” said Dan Sutherland, the City’s emergency program coordinator.

Rebecca Cooke, the City’s ESS co-ordinator, thanked the 80 ESS volunteers and supporting partners who have worked since June 29 to provide over 7,000 hours of support.

“We couldn’t provide the level of support to evacuees without their dedication, kindness, and extensive knowledge. We are very proud of these volunteers, and we feel incredibly fortunate to have them on our team.”