Billy Graham chaplains preparing to assist Fort McMurray fire victims

Christian organization's Rapid Response Team prepares for deployment

CALGARY, May 4, 2016 /CNW/ - A team of the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association of Canada's crisis-trained Rapid Response Team (RRT) chaplains is preparing to deploy to offer emotional and spiritual care to Fort McMurray's forest fire victims.

The RRT chaplains will begin by offering support at sites to which thousands of Fort McMurray residents have been evacuated after wildfires destroyed 1,600 homes in the city of 60,000.

When the evacuation orders are eventually lifted and Fort McMurray residents can return to their city, the RRT chaplains will provide support to homeowners and business owners as they determine what buildings and personal possessions survived the fires and which did not.

"This is obviously a major event within this community and people will be struggling in many ways," said Merle Doherty, manager of BGEAC's RRT chaplains. "Our chaplains will be there to offer emotional and spiritual care to those who are hurting."

Donations Needed
To support the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association's chaplain efforts, please visit BillyGraham.ca/rapidresponse (click on "Donate Now") or call 1-800-293-3717.

About BGEAC
The Billy Graham Evangelistic Association of Canada, established in 1953, partners with churches and Christian communities across Canada and worldwide to proclaim the Good News of Jesus Christ in word and deed. Through relevant language and methods, we share the saving message of Jesus to spiritually searching people of all ages and cultures. To learn more, please visit BillyGraham.ca.

SOURCE Billy Graham Evangelistic Association of Canada

Media inquiries: Jeff Adams, Director, Communications and Creative Services Department, Billy Graham Evangelistic Association of Canada, 1-800-293-3717, 403-615-8747 (mobile) or [email protected]