Jets fans, foundation lend support to Fort McMurray

The Winnipeg Jets are the latest NHL team to help support people affected by the forest fires in Fort McMurray, Alberta.
Fans of the Jets and the American Hockey League's Manitoba Moose donated $32,000 to fire relief efforts through the Winnipeg Jets True North Foundation. The WJTNF donated $100,000 on May 6 to the Canadian Red Cross, which is providing basic supplies, accommodations and registration services to the more than 80,000 residents forced to evacuate the community, the largest fire-related evacuation in Alberta history.

Approximately 45,000 households representing 90,000 people have registered with the Red Cross as a result of the fires.
"Our fans can take pride knowing their donations collected by our Foundation will provide food, shelter and support services to evacuees," said Dwayne Green, executive director of the Winnipeg Jets True North Foundation.
The St. Louis Blues and Blues Alumni also raised money to aid victims during Game 4 of the Western Conference Second Round against the Dallas Stars on May 5 through a 50/50 raffle and the Blues for Kids silent auction.
Blues forward Scottie Upshall is a native of Fort McMurray and has family members living in the area, including a brother and his fiancée, aunts, uncles and nieces. His nieces were among those evacuated.
"You're just worried about the safety of friends and family," Upshall said. "It's a great city, a city that's survived many years through some tough times. For me, growing up there doesn't seem like too long ago, and the places that aren't standing anymore, it'd be tough to take in. As long as everyone is OK, that's the main thing."
The NHL, Edmonton Oilers and Calgary Flames each donated $100,000 to relief efforts last week. Fans can donate to the Canadian Red Cross by visiting
RedCross.ca
or by texting "FIRES" to 45678. The WJTNF is accepting additional donations until Sunday at their
website
.