As communities across B.C. continue to face a state of emergency caused by recent flooding disasters, Trinity Western University joins organizations across the province in support of local B.C. municipal government and charitable relief efforts.
President Husbands expressed in an earlier statement, “We have many students, families, alumni, faculty, staff and friends of the University in and around the Abbotsford area who are profoundly impacted by these events—and we continue to stand with them in prayer. At times like this, you will of course feel tremendous sadness for all whose lives, property, and livelihood are threatened by this terrible natural disaster. I share your deep sadness and concern for everyone involved.”
Supporting Abbotsford, Langley and Indigenous communities
In an effort to provide practical support, TWU leadership has reached out to Abbotsford Emergency Operation Centre to offer the University’s support for needs such as an emergency response staging area, emergency shelter, or food services.
TWU has also been in contact with our University Siya:m Patti Victor, to offer support to her Indigenous community east of Chilliwack.
Additionally, the University has reached out to the Township of Langley to indicate our readiness to support their flood relief needs.
The University continues to remain in contact with local municipal governments and emergency services, to better understand the current situation and to support local authorities according to their needs.
Leaders of TWU’s Student Ministries are in conversation with local charities, including Mennonite Central Committee, to discuss ways in which the University can practically help in timely and effective ways. Additionally, Trinity Western’s Student Association (TWUSA) has started a fundraiser to benefit Archway Food Bank in Abbotsford.
Care for affected students
TWU seeks to provide ongoing, high-quality education for students while also providing for the safety and well-being of our community. Although classes are in session, we recognize that some faculty and students are not able to access campus. Students have been encouraged to contact professors directly regarding their particular situations, especially if they have been directly impacted by the storm and aftermath.
How you can help
For anyone interested in donating to B.C. flooding disaster relief efforts, here are several organizations that you may wish to consider supporting:
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Canadian Red Cross – BC Floods and Extreme Weather Appeal
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Mennonite Central Committee
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MDS Canada: Mennonite Disaster Service
TWU continues to follow closely the B.C. flood disaster situation. As we remain in touch with local B.C. municipal government and charitable relief efforts, we will provide updates accordingly.
About Trinity Western University
Founded in 1962, Trinity Western University is Canada’s premier Christian liberal arts university dedicated to equipping students to establish meaningful connections between career, life, and the needs of the world. It is a fully accredited research institution offering liberal arts and sciences, as well as professional schools in business, nursing, education, human kinetics, graduate studies, and arts, media, and culture. It has four campuses: Langley, Richmond-Lansdowne, Richmond-Minoru, and Ottawa. TWU emphasizes academic excellence, research, and student engagement in a vital faith community committed to forming leaders to have a transformational impact on culture. Learn more at www.twu.ca or follow us on Twitter @TrinityWestern, on Facebook and LinkedIn.