When disaster strikes

Posted on: Staff Writer

Donella Swan 
Times Contributor
 
When devastating forest fires swept through Slave Lake, it left its residents without much – some without anything. 
The outcry for donations was well heard by Albertans and people across Canada, but Trinity Lutheran Christian Academy of Strathmore did something truly remarkable. 
A clothing drive was held in the gymnasium of TLCA and the response was tremendous. 
“I think it was a disaster that occurred and to see the overwhelming desire of the people of Strathmore and area to help fellow Albertans was truly heart-warming,” said Principal of TLCA Harold Warr.
The school council, students, and parent volunteers collected the donations made by citizens of Strathmore and surrounding area. It was the great effort of these volunteers that made the clothing drive possible. Coming in on the holiday Monday, Victoria Day on May 23, these volunteers gave up a day off to accept and sort the donations brought in to help Slave Lake. 
“We were pleased with the opportunity to help. I mean you hear of all these disasters all over the world, but this one occurred in our own backyard,” said Don Derraugh, Chair Person of the Parent Council at TLCA. 
Businesses of Strathmore were of great help in advertising for the clothing drive. 
“We posted notices all over town. Many of the businesses were eager to help,” said Derraugh. 
Many clothing donations were made, but toiletries such as soap, toothpaste, and toothbrushes were given as many residents of Slave Lake were left with nothing, including the bare necessities.
“We really just can’t thank people enough. They really stepped up to the plate to help Slave Lake,” said Derraugh. 
These generous donations are currently being stored because they are eagerly awaiting the green light from Slave Lake. The northern town has been overwhelmed by donations from Alberta and across Canada. Due to the high volume of donations made to Slave Lake, and not enough volunteers to go around, they are just not quite ready to accept the generous donations at this time. 
The tremendous efforts of the school council, students, and parents of Trinity Lutheran Christian Academy and all the citizens of Strathmore who made donations will help in the rebuilding of Slave Lake and the rebuilding of the lives of its citizens.