The B.C. government says it is teaming up with the Red Cross to provide Lytton-area households impacted by the wildfire with one-time $2,000 payments.

In a statement, the government says that includes homes in the Village of Lytton as well as the Lytton First Nation.

According to the most recent data, there were approximately 488 people from the Lytton First Nation and almost 800 people from the Village of Lytton who have registered for supports through Emergency Social Services (ESS).

“We appreciate the support of the Province and the Red Cross to our citizens who have lost so much,” Lytton Mayor, Jan Polderman said, in a statement. “Their support in delivering this money to our residents, who are spread throughout the province, is just one example of the Province’s commitment to aid the citizens of Lytton.”

“We encourage all residents of Lytton to contact the Red Cross to access this support as soon as possible.”

Further, all other households in B.C. under mandatory evacuation order for more than 10 consecutive days during the 2021 wildfire season will be eligible to get a one-time $1,200 payment, which will be distributed by the Canadian Red Cross.

“Those who have had to evacuate, and especially those who have lost their homes in the Lytton area, have suffered so much in the last month,” said Premier John Horgan, in a statement.

“Beyond the current supports to address immediate needs, we’re hoping that by putting cash in the pockets of those who have lost everything, we can help them find some comfort during this difficult time. I want to assure you all that when it comes to recovery and rebuilding, government has your back.”

British Columbians who have been evacuated from their homes can access the support by registering with the Red Cross by calling 1-800-863-6582, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. (Pacific time).

“This has been an extremely difficult time for people affected by wildfires across B.C. These funds will provide much-needed support for hundreds of families who have been displaced from their homes and communities,” Public Safety Minister, Mike Farnworth added.

“We’re working with the Red Cross to get this funding into the hands of people as quickly as possible to alleviate the impacts of prolonged evacuations.”

The government says these payments will be sent by e-transfer.

To be eligible for the $1,200 payment, evacuees must have been evacuated from their primary residence for 10 consecutive days or longer. These payments will not impact eligibility for other supports provided through the ESS program.

People impacted by the Lytton fire will be able to apply until Aug. 31, 2021, while the other people can apply up to 30 days after the evacuation order is lifted.

For more information on the Canadian Red Cross response to wildfires, go here.

Editors note: A previous version of the story said people could register online with the Red Cross. In an update, the Red Cross says online registration is not available at this time and people should register by phone.