Champion Electric raising funds for fire-ravaged Cree Nation of Chisasibi in Quebec

Champion Electric Metals (CSE: LTHM; US-OTC: CHELF) has launched a fundraising and awareness campaign for the Cree Nation of Chisasibi, which has been stricken by the wildfires in Eeyou Istchee James Bay, Quebec this past summer.

There were 38 active fires in the northern zone, and a total of nearly 36,000 sq. km burned since the start of the season in May. The Chisasibi community lost many homes that burned to the ground along six different traplines – the livelihood for many members of this community. Others lost ATVs, snow machines and boats, and other equipment used to support their livelihoods.

The main highway was repeatedly closed due to fires, making it impossible to receive daily supplies, and there have been countless evacuations due to very bad air quality. In addition to the direct impact to the communities, a vast number of animals have perished or been displaced.

The losses to flora and fauna in this area are severe and will take many years to recover. For example, the moose and caribou aren’t expected to return to the burned areas, nor will the ptarmigan and white birds, as their food sources are gone. Ash and soot from the fires have impacted the waterways, polluted lakes and affected fish and plant life that inhabit these waters. This is just the tip of the iceberg, as the full impact of the devastation will not be known for many months after the fires have stopped and the damage has been assessed.

“Given limited and slow deployment of support to these communities and given the immediate needs are so great (over 60% of the Cree of Chisasibi are under the age of 30), we are reaching out to you asking for your support,” says Champion president and CEO Jonathan Buick.

“We have launched a Go Fund Me Page to help raise funds for the children and youth of Chisasibi who have watched their community, land and way of life be devastated by these wildfires.

“We hope that you agree with us that this is the time to do our part, stand together and show our support for the challenges this community faces. Together we can make a meaningful difference and create a lasting and better future for the Chisasibi community,” he added.

Based on Champion Electric’s discussions with Chisasibi leaders, the following will make an immediate impact on local families and particularly the children:

• Backpacks and school supplies for the 1,500-plus students enrolled for this year’s school year;
• Bedding and basic essentials for those that lost their homes or cabins;
• New or slightly used hockey equipment to help the 168 children and youth registered for this upcoming hockey season, and the 144 children and youth registered for the upcoming broomball season.

Any hockey equipment, school supplies, basic essentials or monetary donations to purchase needed items would be invaluable and greatly appreciated and would mean a great deal to the Chisasibi community.

To learn more about how to support the Chisasibi people click here.