“Our evacuated relatives are facing a frightening and uncertain time. Now, more than ever, we must come together as a community to stand with them and offer our support in every way we can.”
– Grand Chief Daniels
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: May 30, 2025
ANISHINAABE AND DAKOTA TERRITORY, MB — As wildfires continue to threaten First Nations across the province, the Southern Chiefs’ Organization (SCO) is calling on all Manitobans to support our evacuated relatives by donating essential items to help provide comfort during these difficult times.
Thousands of evacuees—many of whom are children, Elders, and people with complex needs—have been forced to leave their homes with little to no notice. SCO is organizing a donation drive to collect much-needed comfort and hygiene items for those impacted.
“We are asking all people who are able to step up in the spirit of community and kinship,” stated Grand Chief Jerry Daniels. “Our Nations have always come together in times of crisis, and this is one of those times. The generosity and compassion of our relatives, partners, and neighbours will make a significant difference for those facing uncertain times.”
Visit our website for more information on items we are currently accepting.
You can drop donations off at SCO’s offices during our business hours* from Monday to Friday between the hours of 8:30 am and 4:30 pm:
- 1572 Dublin Avenue, Winnipeg (this is the only drop off point for donations in Winnipeg)
- 2B 136-11th Street, Brandon
- #D016 – 1450 Main Street, Dauphin (donations are only accepted from 8:30 am to 12 noon only at this location)
“Youth have a role to play in uplifting our communities, especially in times like this,” said SCO Youth Chief Billy Bird. “These acts, no matter how small they may feel in the moment, carry deep meaning in our communities. Helping one another is not just a responsibility; it’s part of who we are as First Nations people.”
Donations will be accepted until further notice. We encourage people to follow our social media channels for updates and to share information within their networks.
“Collecting donations and mobilizing our citizens to help respond to this issue is about caring for our relatives,” said SCO Youth Chief Lacy Bird. “First Nations citizens deserve safety and comfort, and it’s up to all of us to help provide that. Let’s come together and show that nobody will have to face this crisis alone.”
For more information, click here.
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The Southern Chiefs’ Organization represents 32 First Nations and more than 87,000 citizens in what is now called southern Manitoba. SCO is an independent political organization that protects, preserves, promotes, and enhances First Nations peoples’ inherent rights, languages, customs, and traditions through the application and implementation of the spirit and intent of the Treaty-making process.
For media inquiries:
Email: Media@scoinc.mb.ca