Red Cross releases Alberta flood progress report on 2-year anniversary

On the eve of the second anniversary of Alberta's devastating floods, the Canadian Red Cross released a progress report examining how people in the province are faring.

• CBC's Alberta flood coverage

The report examines the finances of a massive fundraising effort. So far, the agency has spent more than 80 per centof the $43.3 million it raised.

Of every dollar spent, 95 cents went to support individuals and communities witheverything from cleaning out basements to rebuilding community playgrounds.

The Red Cross has provided assistance to more than 7,700 families through 70 community grantsacrosssouthern Alberta.

Emotional impact

Another factor addressed in the report is the emotional trauma left behind when the flood waters receded.

"We have seen divorces and relationships that have not weathered this disaster.We've seen children who are still not sleeping through the night,"saidMcManus."We've seen seniors who are reacting physically and emotionally to weather patterns."

But it's not all hardship, according to McManus.

"We've also seen families say that they are stronger than ever before."

The Canadian Red Cross will continue working in flood-affected communities, according to McManus, who estimates the agency will continue its flood operations until 2016.People still in need are asked to contact the organization for assistance.