

Meeting the Moment
How the Community and Donors Came Together
In late summer of 2023, the Bush Creek East wildfire ravaged communities in the North Shuswap area. 235 structures were lost, more than 45,000 hectares burnt, and countless lives were impacted.
The wildfire caused widespread devastation, displacing families, damaging homes, and disrupting lives. Recognizing the need for coordinated support, the Shuswap Community Foundation initiated the Emergency Response Fund to provide aid rapidly and where it mattered most.
The above video provides a look into SCF’s initial efforts to assist North Shuswap disaster relief following the wildfire. Discover how the community and donors quickly came together to support neighbours and help rebuild the impacted areas. Thank you to the hundreds of donors that supported the Foundation’s fundraising efforts, and for your continued support and dedication to helping those in need.
Community Impact
$975,000 Raised for Those Impacted by the Disaster
By May 2024, Shuswap Community Foundation had raised an incredible $975,000 for those impacted by the disaster. Out of this, $808,000 was distributed to North Shuswap Disaster Relief Society and other organizations that provided critical assistance to those in greatest need.
Additionally, $165,000 was allocated to the three North Shuswap Firehall Associations to aid in community recovery, enhance preparedness, and fund other charitable projects aimed at helping the community build and recover.
Today, the Emergency Response Fund is dedicated to sustained assistance, focusing on helping community organizations address ongoing needs such as food security, shelter, and community recovery. These efforts extend beyond current disasters to ensure we are prepared for future challenges.
Funding for the Future
A Proactive, Quick-Response Framework
The Bush Creek East wildfire underscored the critical need for coordinated medium- to long-term disaster support. After initial disaster and emergency relief support expired—and with homes still unbuilt—families were displaced again, and lives were thrown into turmoil. In response to these gaps, the SCF Emergency Response Fund was employed to provide aid through community-based organizations and support medium- and long-term recovery efforts.
As of December 2024, Shuswap Community Foundation’s Emergency Response Fund transitioned into a community holding fund for donations, ensuring that Shuswap communities remain prepared for future emergencies. The fund now serves as a proactive framework for responding quickly and effectively to new crises in our region.
How to Donate
Help Us Meet the Moment in the Future
Your contribution ensures that Shuswap communities are ready to respond and recover when emergencies arise, fostering resilience and a stronger future.
Donations can be made by e-transfer (preferred), cheque, in person at any SASCU branch, through a gift of securities, or online through CanadaHelps.
e-Transfer
The simplest (and preferred) way to donate is by sending e-transfer to:
Recipient: info@shuswapfoundation.ca
Memo: Emergency Response Fund
A security question is not required (funds will be auto-deposited).
Send a Cheque
Donations may be made by sending a cheque to:
Shuswap Community Foundation
102 – 160 Harbourfront Drive NE
Salmon Arm, BC, V1E 3M3
Canada
Cheques should be payable to “Shuswap Community Foundation“ and include “Emergency Response Fund” in the memo field.
Visit a SASCU Branch
You can make a donation to the Shuswap Community Foundation “Emergency Response Fund” account at any Salmon Arm Savings and Credit Union (SASCU) branch.
Receipts for taxation purposes can be provided by taking your deposit receipt to the Shuswap Community Foundation office or emailing a copy to info@shuswapfoundation.ca.
Donate Securities
A gift of publicly traded securities can be an attractive option. The Income Tax Act provides that capital gains on securities donated to a charity are exempt from tax, but the donor will receive a tax receipt for the full appreciated value. You will receive a tax receipt for the value of the stock at the time of transfer, and may carry forward for up to five years any unused portions of the gift.
Please talk to your professional adviser or broker to make stock transfers easily. You may download the Share Transfers Form for when you meet with your broker.
Learn more about the Benefits of Donating Securities or contact us by email at info@shuswapfoundation.ca or phone 250-832-5428 for more information.
CanadaHelps
Donations can be made securely and conveniently through the CanadaHelps online platform.