The GM dealers of Northern B.C. have joined forces to help those displaced by the Cariboo wildfires who have taken refuge in Prince George.
A cheque for $24,000 was presented to the Salvation Army on Thursday to assist in providing food and supplies to evacuees.
"We are all connected as one big northern B.C. community and we all share in the responsibility of looking after each other in times of need," said Don Willimont, operations manager at Wood Wheaton Superstore.
Mark Chester, new vehicle sales manager at Wood Wheaton, was amazed at how quickly local businesses stepped up and came together in an effort to help.
"We contacted these stores yesterday and they were thrilled to be asked to help," he said.
"Less than 24 hours later, here we were presenting the cheque."
After having spoken to people at the Emergency Reception Area at CNC, the need was evident as the Salvation Army team continues to provide meals and support to evacuees.
"We knew this was the best choice because the money would hit the streets quickly and there was a clear need for things such as men's clothing and pillows," Chester said.
Along with a team of six emotional/spiritual care people, there are 25 kitchen workers from the Salvation Army who continue to help make sure that evacuees are well fed.
"We want to make sure that everything is controlled and no one goes without," said Lt.-Col. Brian Venables, divisional commander for the Salvation Army.
"We are so happy to be part of this rescue."
The following stores came together in support of the effort: MacCarthy GM - Terrace, Coast Mountain GM - Smithers, Sullivan Motor Products - Houston, Wood Wheaton Super Centre - Prince George, Brown's Chevrolet Buick GMC - Dawson Creek and Murray Chevrolet Buick GMC - Fort St. John.
