(Abbotsford) Several volunteers came to help with cleanup operations in British Columbia after the disastrous floods that recently hit the province.
This is particularly the case in Sumas Prairie, a region of southern British Columbia. Residents there undertook the long cleaning of their homes damaged by the plague. Fortunately, they can benefit from the help of several volunteers, sometimes complete strangers.
If Caroline and Paul Mostertman get used to seeing their possessions floating outside their farm, the generosity of strangers coming to help them clean still amazes them.
“One afternoon, we were sitting in the house when the water was at its highest, and I saw this thing floating around. I turned to Paul to ask him what it was. He told me it was our beer refrigerator, ”says M.me Mostertman.
The nine-meter propane tank “also came [les] to visit “.
“She was drifting and finished her race several kilometers from here,” says Mme Mostertman.
A woman named Christa Lefers arrived at the farm to help the Mostertmans. She even assembled a team of 30 volunteers.
“There are so many great people,” says Caroline Mostertman, who adds that they even brought trash cans and ‘all those things that you don’t think about.’
PHOTO MARTIN TREMBLAY, PRESS ARCHIVES
While residents get used to seeing their belongings floating outside their farm, the generosity of strangers coming to help them clean still surprises them.
“I was not prepared for this,” she admits, speaking of the generosity of foreigners. This is what is said everywhere. Everyone helps everyone. ”
Mme Lefers explains that she is part of a faith group that, along with two organizations, is doing all they can to help those who have lost almost everything and are looking to get their belongings back.
“Many don’t know that some are just starting to return home. We’ve been here a few weeks to help. I promised to stay until the rebuilding because that’s what I’m supposed to do. ”
The cleaning operations could take several months.
For his part, Mme Mostertman says the disaster opens up new perspectives for him.
“I used to worry about the little things. And there, suddenly, we find ourselves faced with that. Little things are not so worrying anymore. ”