During the initial days of the wildfire situation, numerous businesses across our region and throughout the Okanagan Valley banded together to support those affected by the wildfires. From providing meals, accommodations, and transportation to collecting donations, sharing resources, and finding ways to help where needed, our tourism and hospitality community showed what Okanagan hospitality is all about.

A few examples of this support from Tourism Kelowna members included:  

• The Coast Capri Hotel opening its Horizon Event Centre as a complimentary community gathering space, while also offering access to its outdoor pool for non-hotel guests who were staying in temporary accommodations throughout the area. The hotel's front desk was also open as a 24-hour drop-off location for anyone wishing to donate goods to Mamas for Mamas. 
• Paynter's Fruit Market opening their washrooms and orchards around the clock for evacuees to access, while also offering complimentary products and additional offerings to help support them. The Paynter's team has also been showcasing the variety of locally-crafted products it carries, including several from Summerland-based companies. 
• Derrick's Steakhouse hosting a community lunch in support of Mamas for Mamas and its initiatives for wildfire evacuees. An additional 25 Okanagan businesses, including several Tourism Kelowna members (Don-O-Ray Farms, Ex Nihilo Vineyards, Freddy's Brewpub, Quails' Gate Estate Winery, Relvas Catering, Tantalus Vineyards, and Upside Cider), supported the event by donating supplies. Just under 900 people were served at the pay-what-you-can community lunch, and the initiative raised just over $20,000 in donations over six days.

Many businesses and organizations continue to offer support and assistance to affected communities through a variety of initiatives and events:

• For every stay booked at Hotel Eldorado or Manteo through Eldorado Resort's #OkanaganStrong offer, 10% of room revenue will be donated directly to wildfire relief. The limited-time offer includes a discounted room rate. 
• Until the end of the year, OAK + CRU Social Kitchen & Wine Bar at the Delta Hotels by Marriott Grand Okanagan Resort will be donating a portion of every OC Burger sold to the Okanagan wildfire response.
• Bliss Bakery & Bistro has been collecting donations for the Red Cross BC Wildfire Fund—customers who donate $5 or more receive $5 off their bill at Bliss.
• On September 14, the Okanagan Chefs Association (OCA) and Helen's Acres Community Farm will be hosting an End of Summer Fundraiser, featuring a feast cooked by the OCA board of directors, featuring local produce and GFS-sponsored items. 
• On September 20, as part of its 30th anniversary celebrations, Little Straw Vineyards will be hosting a community fundraiser in support of the West Kelowna Fire Department Charitable Society.

There are also specific initiatives that have been launched in support of Summerland, including:

• The Summerland Sauce Project, spearheaded by Chef Ned Bell—co-owner of Hatch Hospitality and creative advisor for the Centre for Food, Wine and Tourism at Okanagan College in Kelowna—and farmer Thomas Tumbach of LocalMotive Farmers Network Cooperative, is raising funds by selling a variety of locally-made sauces, like tomato sauce and fruit compotes. 
• The #SummerlandStrong campaign, launched by Wine Growers British Columbia, BC Restaurants & Foodservices Association, Alliance of Beverage Licensees and Summerland's Bottleneck Drive Association, is encouraging restaurants, retailers, and wine lovers across the province to shine a spotlight on Summerland producers by featuring their wines and sharing what they are pouring using the campaign hashtag. Frankie We Salute You! is one of the Kelowna area restaurants participating in the campaign.

Tourism Kelowna extends its thanks to every business and individual in our tourism industry who has supported evacuees, first responders, visitors, and neighbouring communities affected by wildfires. Your generosity and care help make the Okanagan resilient and strong. 

Know of an ongoing or upcoming initiative, campaign, or event not included above? Email Tourism Kelowna's team so it can be added to this post.