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Band puts out call for ESS help

Okanagan Indian Band looking for volunteers to help those affected by flooding
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Properties on Okanagan Indian Band lands have been impacted by a rising Okanagan Lake. The band is looking for emergency service volunteers to help those affected by flooding. (Facebook photo)

The Okanagan Indian Band has put out an urgent call for Emergency Social Services (ESS) volunteers.

OKIB community members forced from their homes by flooding, or other emergencies may be eligible for short-term assistance for lodging and groceries. In order to access those services they will be directed to their local Emergency Social Services (ESS) Team.

“We are in urgent need of volunteers to help with this recent state of emergency in our community,” said Shaylen Smith, OKIB communications and events coordinator. “There is a need for Emergency Social Services volunteers to assist flood affected residents.”

Shifts are for Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and the request is for volunteers to commit to one day a week.

ESS Volunteers may be involved in:

 Identifying locations for Reception Centre’s and group lodging;

 Recruitment of additional team members;

 Working with local businesses, service organizations and government agencies;

 Issuing lodging and meal referrals for people forced from their homes;

Each year about 5,000 British Columbians volunteer as emergency social service workers.

If you are interested in volunteering for the Emergency Social Services (ESS) please call the EOC-OKIB 250-542-7132



Roger Knox

About the Author: Roger Knox

I am a journalist with more than 30 years of experience in the industry. I started my career in radio and have spent the last 21 years working with Black Press Media.
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