After thousands fled their homes due to the Bald Range wildfire, the nearby city of Penticton has emerged as a hub of support—with volunteers, residents and ranchers stepping up to help evacuees navigate an uncertain and stressful time. Outside the local evacuation centre, volunteers with Junior Chamber International Penticton have been working around the clock to provide meals, hygiene supplies and other essentials for people displaced by the devastating, fast-moving wildfire. “We just see the need, it’s something we can do so we’re going to do it—and we’re going to do it for as long as we can and as long as there is a need for it,” said Stuart Knott, membership director for JCI Penticton. For more than 72 hours, volunteers have been cooking meals, distributing personal care items and helping evacuees care for their pets as they adjust to being away from home. “This is huge and they’re so friendly. It’s just really nice here,” one evacuee said. And the support extends well beyond the doors of the evacuation centre. Penticton resident Kelly Farley and her family have opened their property to people forced from their homes, offering shelter and a sense of stability during a difficult time. “There’s 32 people up here right now,” Farley said, adding that she is doing more than simply providing a place to stay. “I’ve been hosting breakfasts and dinners as I can with the supplies that we’re getting.” For many evacuees, the challenge of fleeing a wildfire is compounded by concerns about their animals, particularly larger livestock that can be difficult to relocate on short notice. That is where Chris Dandurand has stepped in. Dandurand has opened nearly 500 acres of his property to evacuees needing a safe place for their horses. He says people can arrive at any hour, bringing as many animals as necessary. “We’re providing a safe place for horses basically to be rescued and brought out this way. We’ve got lots of water. We’ve got lots of hay here as well,” Dandurand said. So far, 48 horses have been brought to his property. “I’m ready and willing to go 24-7. I have people calling me at three in the morning and I’ll get my jeans on and I’ll get out and meet you. I’ll help you load your horse. I’ll do whatever it takes because that’s what makes a strong community,” he said. As wildfire evacuees grapple with loss, uncertainty and disruption, stories of generosity continue to emerge, residents in Penticton are demonstrating that recovery begins with neighbours helping neighbours. “The whole community. Everybody helping everybody. This is great,” another evacuee said.
