On benches outside a hotel near Toronto Pearson International Airport, members of Deer Lake First Nation are gathered.
“We’re not sure when we’ll return home,” Don Meekis shared, who has been in the Toronto area since late May after his community received an evacuation notice due to wildfires.
“The first few days were tough, but it’s become easier over time. There’s been a lot of support available.”
Meekis is among the thousands who have had to leave their homes in Northern Ontario because of the wildfires.
Deer Lake First Nation resident Don Meekis has been at a hotel in the GTA since fleeing the wildfires back home.
Megan King / Global News
“I saw flames, 50 feet high, close to our homes,” Meekis remembered. “Many communities nearby are also getting evacuated.”
The Canadian Red Cross has been called upon to help, according to their spokesperson.
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“At the request of ISN Maskwa, the Canadian Red Cross is assisting individuals from Deer Lake First Nation with services such as registration, reception, information, and other personal services,” the spokesperson informed Global News.
Meekis noted that everyone is helping each other and maintaining positive spirits, although the quick evacuations did not allow for any preparations or even to bring extra clothing.
“I need a new pair of shoes,” he said. “Size 10.”
He has been wearing the same Croc clogs since May 30.
In addition, many residents of the remote community had to leave their pets behind.
“They told us we would be gone for three to four weeks when we were evacuated,” Meekis mentioned. “Now, we have no idea what’s next since the fire is still not under control and is still very active.”
Many evacuees have faced difficulties with dietary restrictions, missing the comforts of personal kitchens, including homemade bannock.
Fortunately, a chef at the hotel has made efforts to accommodate their meal suggestions.
Sol Mamakwa, the MPP for Kiiwetinoong, advocates for improved fire-fighting capabilities.
Isaac Callan / Global News
“If we had more resources and better infrastructure for battling these wildfires, we might have prevented this situation,” said MPP Sol Mamakwa.
He believes enhancing firefighting capacities should be a priority in addressing the growing issue of wildfires.
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