Recovery specialists can assist affected households with housing, financial assistance applications and individual recovery plans.
SUMMERLAND — Households that lost their homes in the Bald Range wildfire can access free, one-on-one assistance with housing, financial support applications and recovery planning through a service announced by the District of Summerland on Oct. 19.
The District and the Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen (RDOS) are working with Samaritan's Purse Canada to provide Community Recovery Specialists who can help affected residents navigate the recovery process. The specialists are available to meet with households in person or by telephone.
According to the organization's recovery-support information, specialists work with families to develop individual plans based on their circumstances and priorities. Assistance can include finding temporary or longer-term housing, connecting with landlords and BC Housing, and organizing the steps needed to recover from the loss of a home.
Specialists can also help residents apply for Disaster Financial Assistance, income supports and other programs, replace lost documents and organize insurance paperwork. They can connect households with local agencies and community organizations that provide practical assistance.
The program includes ongoing follow-up as households work through their recovery plans. Specialists can help residents navigate administrative difficulties, accompany them to appointments and connect them with mental health and wellness services.
Samaritan's Purse says its specialists are trained in trauma-informed care and work with the District, RDOS and local agencies. The organization identifies itself as Christian but says its services are available to everyone, regardless of faith or background.
The program is intended for households whose homes were lost in the wildfire. The District's announcement does not specify an application deadline or additional eligibility requirements. There is no charge for the service.
According to the program information, recovery specialists will maintain contact with participating households and follow up on referrals as needs change. Before their work in the community concludes, individual recovery plans will be transferred to local recovery management and continuing support services.
Residents can contact Community Recovery Specialists Kelly Dixon at 403-614-8848 or Kandy White at 236-622-2000. They can also email recovery@samaritan.ca to arrange assistance.
District of Summerland and RDOS staff can also refer affected residents to the program.
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