To the editor;
We were evacuees from 108 Mile Ranch, who spent more than a week in your town. It was with joy that we were permitted to return home. Yet is was with a feeling of “unfinished business” that we left Barriere, due to the outpouring of compassion we experienced.
We were in our motor home, parked in a field on the corner of Station Road and Barriere Town Road. We had so many folks drop by and offer us accommodations in their yards. As we already had been relocated six times, it was difficult for us to consider yet another move. That being said, this did not stop the generous people of your community from visiting us. Steve and Mary brought us breakfast. Jean and Michelle graciously provided water for us each day. Simone generously offered the use of her shower. Some dear soul brought flowers, which was particularly heartwarming as one of us had been stung by a wasp earlier in the day.
We had another gentleman drop off water bottles, just as we were about to visit the registration centre for more.
The woman in the library spent calming moments helping us to register with the Red Cross, even as the library closing time was approaching.
The lady in the feed storespent time encouraging us how to feed our dog who had stopped eating from the stress of being away from her own yard.
The IDA store offered evacuees a discount for purchases. The Legion barbecue was a wonderful diversion.
I know I am not mentioning all the folks who stopped by our motorhome. There were so many of you.
The chap who owned the gravel pits and logging trucks gave us a very pleasant visit, giving us something else to talk about besides wildfires. There was a lady who brought our dog treats from her job in a restaurant. There was another lady who came every day for a visit and a lovely walk in the nearby park.
We simply desire that you all be acknowledged, and please accept our gratitude for your part in making our stress much less.
Barriere – we salute your generosity and extend our deep-felt gratitude to all of you.
Thank you.
Mike and Joanne Hirshfield
108 Mile Ranch evacuees