With hundreds of wildfire evacuees from Jasper temporarily calling Edmonton their home, some restaurants and lounges in the city are doing their bit to help.
During this devastating time, wildfire fundraisers have also been established to help evacuees and disaster readiness.
RESTAURANTS PROVIDING FREE MEALS
Downtown businesses in Edmonton are rallying to support those affected by the Jasper wildfires by extending deals and freebies. Fu’s Repair, Dolly’s Cocktails and The Common are providing free meals, and some other restaurants are providing free pizzas or 50 per cent discount on meals.
Campio Brewing in Edmonton is offering hefty discounts on food for those who have been displaced. In Instagram posts, they said that they are “rallying to support our friends in Jasper,” adding that they want to help as best they can.
Meuwlys, an Edmonton Artisan Food Market is raising funds for Jasper tourism and hospitality workers
The goal is to help evacuees get comfortable in Edmonton, take their minds off the fires, and let them know that Edmontonians are here to help.
The Better Business Bureau is warning people to be cautious when choosing a crowdfunding source or when making an online donation. The BBB recommends people verify a charity’s legitimacy, don’t donate to unsolicited requests, especially on social media and to donate directly to well-known charities like the Red Cross.
On Friday afternoon, Premier Danielle Smith announced that the provincial and federal government will match the Red Cross donations. The Canadian Red Cross has launched the 2024 Alberta Wildfires Appeal to help people and communities impacted by wildfires in Alberta. Canadians wishing to donate can do so online.
The Jasper Community Team Society with the assistance of the Outreach Workers is also assisting Jasper locals in these trying times.
Little Brick in Edmonton has partnered with Roasti Coffee Company to raise funds for Cafés and Baristas in Jasper and is also offering free coffee to the evacuees in Edmonton.