Vancouver-based TELUS Communications has announced C$5 million ($3.7 million) in cash donations and in-kind contributions in support of relief efforts and first responders battling the wildfires in British Columbia.

As Canada experiences its worst wildfire season yet, thousands of residents in cities across the province have been evacuated. TELUS, in partnership with the TELUS Friendly Future Foundation, TELUS Indigenous Communities Fund, TELUS Agriculture & Consumer Goods, and TELUS Health, is making donations to organizations including the Canadian Red Cross, Salvation Army British Columbia Division, British Columbia SPCA, Mamas for Mamas, BC Cattlemen’s Association, and local food banks. The companies are also supporting a free community crisis hotline available 24/7 to all Canadians; TELUS Health is matching all donations to the BC SPCA up to $10,000 to support their emergency response efforts. TELUS Friendly Future Foundation also has activated a text-to-donate fundraising campaign for TELUS customers to give in support of registered charities providing wildfire relief.

“Our TELUS team is devastated by the widespread wildfires that continue to rage across British Columbia and our hearts are with all of those affected,” said TELUS president and CEO Darren Entwistle. “As always, we will continue to be there for British Columbians in their time of need and, in this regard, it is an honor to lend our support through an initial investment of $5 million to assist with wildfire relief efforts.”

(Photo credit: Getty Images/Mooneydriver)