MOOSE JAW — A local business owner is issuing a heartfelt call to action for Moose Jaw to once again rally around those in need — this time, for northern Saskatchewan communities impacted by devastating wildfires.
Marcy Duffey, owner of Keon Garden Centre, took to social media this week to encourage fellow residents and businesses to contribute to the Canadian Red Cross Saskatchewan Wildfire Relief Fund. Her video message, posted to the garden centre’s Facebook page, appeals to the city’s longstanding spirit of generosity.
“The wildfires up north are really creating havoc for many, many people. People are losing their homes, businesses are burning; they're evacuated, and they don't know when they're going to go back,” Duffey said in the video.
She reflected on how fortunate southern Saskatchewan residents have been this fire season and shared her belief that lending a hand to others in need is simply the right thing to do.
“There but for the grace of God go any of us — we don't have those fires down here right now,” Duffey said.
The wildfires, which continue to burn across the northern portion of the province, have forced hundreds of residents to evacuate and placed communities under ongoing threat. The Canadian Red Cross is currently providing emergency support and supplies to those displaced.
Currently, all donations to the Canadian Red Cross will be matched by the federal government, doubling the impact of every dollar given.
“If you donate to the Red Cross right now for the Saskatchewan Wildfire Relief, the federal government will match your donation,” she noted.
Feeling a responsibility to contribute, Duffey said, “I'm thinking, as a business, I felt the need to do something to help,” before inviting others in the local business community to do the same.
“I am challenging — or asking — other businesses in the city to donate what they can so that we can help out all our neighbours to the north,” she said.
To donate, visit RedCross.ca and select the Saskatchewan Wildfires Appeal.
