Photo Credit: Interior Savings and Fraser&Gulf
BC Wildfire

Two B.C. credit unions helped raise $67,238 for wildfire relief

Oct 19, 2023 | 11:34 AM

PRINCE GEORGE—Communities across B.C. have faced devastating impacts from this year’s wildfire season. As the communities rebuild two B.C. credit unions have come together to raise money for the relief efforts.

The collaboration between Interior Savings and Gulf & Fraser has helped raise money for United Way BC’s United for BC Wildlife Recovery Fund. The Fund, announced in August, focuses on helping people in affected communities during times of crisis, with essential needs such as food, fuel, and mental health supports.

Through a “matching campaign”, each credit union pledged $10,000, matching dollar for dollar donations made to the recovery fund. Through this they not only achieved their fundraising goal they exceeded it, as members of the community donated $47,238. Combined with the contributions made by each of the credit unions, a total of $67,238 was raised, which will provide even more relief for those affected by wildfires.

“When we announced that donations for the campaign would be matched, we hoped to inspire people to support the cause and maximize our pledge,” says Brian Harris, CEO of Interior Savings. “We couldn’t be happier with the result. Not only did the community rise to the challenge, they exceeded our expectations, proving once again we’re stronger when we work together.”

Both Interior Savings and Gulf & Fraser are thankful for the success of this campaign and of the support they’ve received from their members and communities across BC.

“Cooperation and concern for community are two key principles of credit unions around the world,” says Bill Kiss and Jeff Shewfelt, Co-CEOs of Gulf & Fraser. “The collaboration with Interior Savings is further demonstration of these principles in action, allowing us to amplify our support of the relief and recovery work being done by United Way BC.”

With cooler temperatures as we move into winter the remaining fires are expected to end, however the endeavour to rebuild the lives of many communities across BC has just begun. To help support the significant work that lies ahead, Interior Savings and Gulf & Fraser have collectively pledged a further amount of up to $50,000. furthermore, they announced a potential merger between the companies and to encourage member participation in the voting process, every vote cast will result in a donation made towards the Recovery Fund; irrespective of whether they are in favour or opposed of the planned merger.