By Cheryl Jahn

Reception Centre helps those in need

Jul 25, 2024 | 2:52 PM

PRINCE GEORGE – It houses the simpler things, like juice and snacks to the more pressing resources, like access to computers so evacuees can find help at a time when they desperately need it. So what happens when the sorry soul comes through those doors?

“We have desks set up inside where we’re able to assist in giving basic supports like food, shelter, clothing, depending on what each evacuee each evacuee needs,” says Nyla Perry, a volunteer with Emergency Social Services. “We’re able to assist all sorts of different situations, help in helping to accommodate for pets or disabilities. Our main goal for the first 5 minutes of interaction is to make them feel safe. The first message is that for the next 72 hours at least, they are in a safe place.”

The first message to those who come through the doors is that, for the next 72 hours – at least – they are in a safe place.

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“I have never had any problems with anybody. I’ve had a lot of very kind people, a lot of people that I’ll never forget helping. Honestly, it’s just like trying to help. And while most people who arrive at reception centers like this are happy to get some help.”

But, for the most part, the folks that come to her appreciate the help. But, in some cases, these are people who have nothing left but what they’ve packed.

“The biggest thing is they’re coming out of fight or flight for the first time in sometimes many, many hours. A lot of them have been driving all night or in buses all night with no certainty of what was going to happen next. Our job is to sit them down and say, we know what’s happening. You have a plan for the next 72 hours.”

So here’s to hoping these reception centres, and the likes Nyla Perry, have a quiet summer.