The City of Kamloops says it has supported around 1,500 evacuees at the McArthur Island Reception Centre since it opened last Thursday.

Emergency Supports Supervisor, Natasha Hartson, says while most of the people coming to Kamloops have been from the Shuswap, the City is also supporting people from the Lytton area.

“Most people are actually staying with friends and family and those people who need accommodation are coming to the reception centre and are being put into hotels,” Hartson said.

“We also had some individuals who have been able to take part in our evacuee accommodation location out near Rayleigh.”

Hartson also says there is a group lodging facility up at McArthur Island, though its not being used at the moment.

“That was used during the very peak days when we had lots of people coming in at once,” Hartson said. “It was a safe place for people to get some rest if need be, and as soon as we could get them into proper accommodations, we did.”

Hartson says the City is grateful for all of the people who have stepped up to volunteer in the reception centre, though she notes they cannot accept walk-up volunteers. She is also asking people to not bring donations of any kind to the North Kamloops facility as volunteers cannot accept donations.

“ESS is a provincial program that requires a police information check, as well as specific training and courses that cannot be provided on the spot during an emergency event,” Hartson said.

“Residents who wish to become a qualified volunteer to support future events can register at online. A volunteer coordinator will reach out regarding future training opportunities as capacity allows following this event.”

All evacuees are also being told to register for Emergency Support Services here.