Prince George Asking Residents to Hold Off on Donating Physical Goods for Evacuees

Aug 6, 2026 | 1:39 PM

PRINCE GEORGE – With wildfire evacuations happening across B.C., the City of Prince George is asking residents not to donate physical goods right now. Officials say evacuees’ immediate needs are already being met.

Tanya Spooner, who manages emergency programs for the City, said they appreciate the community’s support, but there is no need for donations like clothing or furniture at this time.

“It’s natural for people to want to help during an evacuation like this, and we really appreciate that support from the community,” Spooner said.

Spooner said there are about 30 to 40 evacuees in Prince George right now, and many are staying with family or friends. They are also getting help from the Province’s Emergency Support Services program.

This provincial program helps pay for hotel stays, food, clothing, pet care, and other basic needs for people who have had to leave their homes.

“Their immediate needs are being taken care of by the province,” Spooner said.

Groups like the Canadian Red Cross and United Way are starting to raise money, but Spooner said they are not asking for physical donations right now.

“We’re not asking people to donate items such as clothing or furniture,” she said. “The reality is that evacuees generally don’t have the capacity to receive those items right now, and we don’t have the space to store them.”

She also said that taking in lots of donated goods before knowing what’s needed can make things harder for emergency teams.

Instead, the City is asking residents to wait for targeted appeals as needs emerge.

“What we’re asking people to do is wait until specific needs are identified,” Spooner said.

The City works with local charities and community groups and will help organize support if there are needs for pets, livestock, or other special services. Spooner said organizations like the Humane Society, Horse Society, and Rodeo Society may be asked to help if needed.

As the situation changes, Spooner said there might be requests for certain donations or supplies. For now, she encourages residents to check local media, the City’s website, and other trusted sources for updates.

“There may be targeted appeals for particular items as the situation evolves,” Spooner said. “We encourage residents to watch local media, the City’s website and other reputable sources for updates on what’s needed and when. That will ensure donations are both timely and useful.”