How to support the response to the Australian bushfires

The devastating numbers have become news banners. So far, the ongoing Australian bushfires have burned 60,000 square kilometres of land, killed at least 29 people, destroyed nearly 2,000 homes, and caused the deaths of millions of animals (potentially up to 1.25 billion).

Canadian-based organizations have dedicated funds and sent staff and volunteers to help in response and recovery efforts in Australia. Several of these were involved in addressing similar crises on home soil — in particular, during the massive 2016 wildfires that forced evacuations in Fort McMurray, Alberta. 

Listed below are a handful of registered charities helping in Australia that you can donate directly to through your Impact Account. If this is a cause that is calling to you, we encourage you to consider acting on your generosity — regardless of where you choose to donate.

The Canadian Red Cross
The Canadian Red Cross Society is part of the largest humanitarian network in the world, the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement. Its highly recognizable emblem can be seen wherever the organization’s medical personnel and volunteers are responding to international disasters and humanitarian needs. 

The Salvation Army in Canada
According to a January 4th press release, Salvation Army Emergency Services (SAES) in Australia are responding to calls for volunteers and assistance. The organization is assisting with food prep and meals at evacuation centres, feeding firefighters battling the blazes, and working with local authorities to assist tourists in evacuating. 

Disaster Aid Canada
Governed and administered by Canadian Rotaries, Disaster Aid Canada provides worldwide humanitarian relief to those displaced by disaster — including access to shelter, hygiene products, and clean water. Donations made through Disaster Aid Canada will go towards work with Disaster Aid International and Rotary clubs in Australia “to ensure help is provided where it is most needed.”

Samaritan’s Purse Canada
Samaritan’s Purse Canada is sending a highly trained team to assist families in Australia in recovering items from their destroyed homes, as well as with clean-up and debris management. According to its website, the organization brings significant experience from Canadian wildfire responses, such as in Fort McMurray, Alberta, where they helped almost 500 families in 2016. 

WWF Canada
WWF is working in Australia on animal recovery, rescue and relief efforts for koalas, kangaroos, and countless other species who have lost their habitats in the fires.

World Animal Protection
This organization has been operating for 30 years and focuses on the mistreatment and neglect of animals worldwide. They are responding to the fires in Australia and will be contributing to long-term recovery efforts to support animals’ habitats.

If you’d like to give to support the response to the Australian bushfires or to any other cause, we are here to support you. Through Charitable Impact’s online giving platform, you can give to any of the over 85,000 registered charities across Canada. By setting up a free Impact Account, our powerful search engine will connect you to charities — from familiar favourites to new discoveries. Plus, get recommendations through your account. You can add funds to your account, take the time and space needed to plan your impact, and then send gifts to the causes you care about. 

We’re here to help support your giving, your way. Email [email protected] or call 1-877-531-0580.

Updated January 16, 2020