The British Columbia Liquor Distribution Branch held a fundraiser in conjunction with the Red Cross BC Fire Appeal to help British Columbians affected by the wildfires.
BC Liquor Stores’ customers donated a record-breaking total of $417,675 for the cause between July 10, 2017, and August 31, 2017. The money raised went towards supporting the immediate needs of wildfire evacuees with emergency food, water, and shelter.
“Our partnership with BC Liquor Stores and other community partners is vitally important to the Red Cross.” Explains Kimberley Nemrava, Canadian Red Cross, BC & Yukon vice-president. “Their donations have enabled us to provide additional assistance to 4,700 vulnerable families that were hit the hardest by the wildfires.”
The three government liquor stores in Prince George collectively raised approximately $15,000. Local liquor companies directly donated a portion of their proceeds on select products sold in BC Liquor Stores to the Red Cross as well, raising an additional $69,500.
“I extend my sincere gratitude and appreciation for our customers and recognize the effort of our BC Liquor Stores’ employees for supporting this important campaign.” Says Blain Lawson, general manager and CEO of BC’s Liquor Distribution Branch. “While our campaign has now come to a close, the wildfire season is not over and so I encourage everyone to continue to support the Red Cross by donating directly what they can, or by volunteering their time.”
For more information on how to donate to help with wildfire relief efforts, click here.