City wraps up support for wildfire evacuees

Thursday, September 28, 2023


The City of Leduc concluded its support for wildfire evacuees from the Northwest Territories last week after establishing its Emergency Coordination Centre (ECC) in August to assist the Alberta Emergency Management Agency. 

The City’s ECC was open on Aug. 17 to welcome and register hundreds of people who had been displaced from their homes, many of whom were accommodated in local hotels. Personal services (e.g., hygiene kits, diapers, formula) were offered to help meet urgent needs; AHS was on-site providing first aid, mental health and addiction support; and an Indigenous Advisor was available. 

Although the ECC itself was open for one day, the City's efforts were maintained until Sept. 18 and included ongoing support related to public safety, meals, pets, transit, social services and re-entry flights.  

Between Aug. 13 and Sept. 18, the City of Leduc: 

  • Booked 287 hotel rooms; 
  • Placed 651 people in hotels; 
  • Registered 949 people in the provincial system; 
  • Provided support to 128 pets related to people placed in hotels; 
  • Answered 110 phone calls on its evacuation line; spoke to 73 families and 37 individuals; 
  • Worked with 11 hotels and seven partner organizations to accommodate evacuees; and, 
  • Supported nine re-entry flights. 

“While most of the evacuees who were staying in Leduc have now safely returned to the Northwest Territories and no longer require our services, we hope all felt welcomed, supported and safe while in our community,” says City of Leduc Mayor Bob Young.  

“I am especially proud of City Administration and our local hoteliers for their hard work and collaborative approach to helping all who needed our support,” Young continues. “You’ve demonstrated strong leadership and the kind, caring community spirit that helps make Leduc a place we are proud to call home.” 

We know the Leduc community is generous and was eager to help our neighbours who were impacted by these wildfires. Thank you to all who offered support through the recommended organizations outlined by the province.