Saskatchewan rallies to help Fort McMurray evacuees

As fire continues to burn in and around Fort McMurray, Alta.,many residents in Saskatchewan are pitching in tohelp out displaced families.

Since Tuesday around 88,000 people have fled the northern Alberta city and 1,600 homes have been destroyed by fire.

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Paul ChavadyfromSaskatoon is organizing a donation drive on Friday and he's hoping to pack a semi-trailer of goods to send to Edmonton.

"It's just part of the Saskatchewan spirit," Chavady said."Looking around we're definitely not the only ones doing something this time around and [we] definitely want to be part of that and show Alberta that we're there for them as well."

Chavady has arranged to park a semi-trailer in the parking lot out front of the Stonebridge WalmartFridaymorning.

From9 a.m. until 7 p.m. CST he will be collecting everything from furniture to non-perishable food items to send to Fort McMurray evacuees.

"We really want to get that semi filled all the way to the rafters if we can," he said. "We're counting on Saskatoon to get that done."

Regina'sdonation drive

A similar donation drive is being planned in Regina. Hasan Hai is setting up a booth at the Regina Farmer's Marketon Saturdayto collect donations for those forced out of their homes by the wildfire.

"At the end of the day when people are suffering, what we as Canadians and humans can do is just roll up our sleeves and forget politics and see what we can do to help," Hai said.

Hai saidhe understands the urgency right now when it comes to essential living items. He'll be collecting food, clothingand other items to help families transition into their temporary homes.

"We'll have a clearly marked sign Fort McMurray donations. People can drop off any new items, toiletries, underwear, socks, even pet food that's unopened."

Hai will be collecting donations starting at9 a.m.until 1 p.m. CST atCity Square Plaza.