The ability of Winnipeg’s faith community to quickly mobilize to help wildfire evacuees this summer underscores the decision to create a multifaith and cultural circle, says Mayor Scott Gillingham.

“One of the reasons we were able to respond to the wildfires was because of the infrastructure faith and cultural groups already have in place,” Gillingham said, citing how he saw volunteers from Mennonite Disaster Service and the Sikh community helping at evacuation centres.

“They do this out of their sense of service and compassion. It was so great to see,” he said, adding they are able to quickly get the word out to members of their churches, gurdwaras, temples, synagogues and mosques.

“The importance of the circle has been affirmed for me,” said Gillingham. “It’s a place where faith and c

See Full Page