Saskatchewan Credit Unions will be accepting cash donations to help Saskatchewan residents devastated by recent severe weather until July 22, 2010.

Severe overland flooding due to recent, near-record levels of precipitation has led to many Saskatchewan communities declaring a State of Emergency. Particularly hard-hit was the town of Maple Creek in the province’s southwest corner, where several homes were evacuated and a section of the Trans-Canada Highway has been washed out and closed. Other communities are currently in the process of assessing the local damage.

Local Red Cross volunteers and staff have been actively involved in responding to the crisis since the flooding began. Red Cross provided emergency assistance in Maple Creek when homes were evacuated and provided 100 cots and blankets to the local reception centre. Through a national agreement with RONA, Red Cross is also providing 70 clean-up kits to flood-affected residents in Maple Creek.

“We appreciate the support of Saskatchewan credit unions in collecting donations on our behalf,” says Cindy Fuchs, Saskatchewan Provincial Director for the Canadian Red Cross. “We are working closely with local officials in the affected communities throughout the province and we anticipate providing flood recovery assistance to affected households in the weeks and months ahead.

“Saskatchewan credit unions believe in helping communities and are especially proud to be able to assist the people in our own province who are suffering after the devastating floods,” says Pam Skotnitsky, Executive Vice-President of Corporate and Community Affairs, SaskCentral. “Saskatchewan credit unions are prepared to help the Red Cross collect donations to support relief efforts in Saskatchewan.”

Donations can be made at all Saskatchewan credit union branches. Saskatchewan credit unions have an ongoing arrangement with the Canadian Red Cross to assist them in all of their relief efforts.

For more information on how you can donate, visit your local branch of Spectra Credit Union or give us a call at 636-7700 or toll free at 1-800-863-1312.