We are proud to partner with the WORD ON THE LAKE writers’ festival (May 16 – 18, 2025 at the Prestige Harbourfront Inn in Salmon Arm) to announce the evolution of our Shuswap Emergency Response Fund into a broader Shuswap Emergency Preparedness Fund. This fund is dedicated to ensuring our communities are better positioned to recover and rebuild from future emergencies.

A Special Contribution

Acclaimed guest writer John Vaillant will be donating his appearance fee to help rebuild and strengthen this fund. His generosity highlights the importance of preparedness in an era where communities face increasing challenges due to climate and environmental factors.

Why This Matters

Originally established to assist residents affected by the 2023 Bush Creek East wildfire in North Shuswap, the fund’s expanded scope will now allow the Foundation to provide support to communities across the region in times of need. By shifting from emergency response to preparedness, we aim to build the capacity to ensure that the resources communities need are available when they are needed most.

How You Can Help

Your donation will help ensure that communities in the Shuswap have the resources to prepare for and respond to future emergencies. Every contribution, big or small, makes a difference.

Ways to Donate:

  • E-Transfer: Send to info@shuswapfoundation.ca (Please include “Shuswap Emergency Preparedness Fund” in the message.)
  • Visit SASCU Branch: You can make a donation to the “Shuswap Emergency Preparedness Fund” account at any Salmon Arm Savings and Credit Union (SASCU) branch.
  • By Cheque: Make payable to Shuswap Community Foundation, with “Shuswap Emergency Preparedness Fund” in the memo.
  • Online: please consider coving the online administration fee, https://shuswapfoundation.ca/donate/

FAQ

What is the Emergency Preparedness Fund?
The Emergency Preparedness Fund represents the evolution of the incredibly successful Emergency Response Fund, which provided nearly $1,000,000 to assist recovery and rebuilding efforts in the North Shuswap following the Bush Creek Wildfire. The goal is to create a proactive and responsive funding source that can be quickly leveraged or directly applied to communities facing crises, supporting immediate relief, recovery, and long-term resilience.

How will funds be used?
Donations will support emergency planning, readiness initiatives, community resilience projects, and immediate relief when necessary.

Can I contribute in other ways?
Absolutely! Spreading awareness and advocating for community preparedness is just as valuable as financial contributions.