GREEK
FIRE RELIEF EFFORTS
Many of the Greeks living in British Columbia have families that are
affected by the fires that have been raging in Greece over the summer.
Even though most of the fires are now under control there is still the
danger that some will reunite. The hot dry spell in Greece is still not
over. Many people have lost everything and it will take them a long time
to get re-established so any outside assistance will be much appreciated.
The Greek Consulate in Vancouver has let it be known that a special
account has been opened by the Greek Ministry of Economics with the Bank
of Greece where individuals can contribute to help the victims of the
fires in Greece. For those living in British Columbia, Alberta and
Saskatchewan the Consulate of Greece in Vancouver has opened a special
account at the Canadian Western Bank (Account No: 9886425-SO)
The Greek Orthodox Community of Victoria and Vancouver Island set up a
special collection box during its annual Greek Fest to collect funds to
help the victims of the fires. Over the course of the 6 day festival over
$7000 was collected. The community hoped to add to those funds out of the
proceeds of the festival as well, once all the expenses had been
calculated.
Funds for the fire victims were also collected in Vancouver. The Hellenic
Canadian Congress spearheaded the efforts. A radiothon held on Sunday
September 2nd raised over $7000 for the fire relief fund. The
Serbian Community of St. Sava raised almost $2000 at their community
festival to help their Greek Orthodox friends.
A concert is also planned for Thursday, September 27th at the
Hellenic Community Centre in Vancouver. It will feature live in concert
Lefteris Pantazis and Effie Thodi. Net proceeds will go to the Greek Fire
Relief Fund of BC.
