GO Indoor

SUMMER2018 13 J odi Blackwell and Scott Parker of Saskatoon Soccer Centre regularly attend USIndoor's Conference & Tradeshow, and this year's plans were no different from any other year. However, shortly after arriving in Indianapolis for this year's event, they got a call – wildfires in the province had forced evacuations, and 122 people were on the way seeking shelter. So, Scott flew back to work with the Red Cross. "I'm not even sure how it originated," says Jodi, "but when our first facility was built in 1998, I think the organization was approached by the province about the possibility of using it as an evacuation center or a reception center in case of northern wildfires or flooding." There aren't many facilities that can hold large groups of people, and at the time the facility was not heavily used during the summer months when natural disasters were most likely. With the addition of the Henk Ruys Soccer Centre, turning the facility into an evacuation center has happened almost annually, holding up to 600 people across its three fields. Group Effort It all starts with a phone call saying that the facility is needed as a shelter. "We could have it turned into an actual reception center within probably six or seven hours and welcome guests that quickly," says Jodi. "We get better and better every year, and it's amazing to see these people in action to get it converted." She and her staff will contact their usual customers letting them know of the change. Summertime, when evacuations are most likely to happen, sees lighter usage anyway, and rentals can be transferred to the other facility. Jodi says their regulars are quite understanding. Which is not to say she never tells the Red Cross no. Their good relationship makes saying that easier, and the Red Cross is understanding when it happens. "I know that's really hard for the Red Cross to hear, because they're so used to our facility now. They're so comfortable with it; they know what to do. It makes it so much easier for them." The facility isn't alone in making preparations. "The province is responsible for such an event, but they have contracted our local Red Cross to manage the evacuation facilities," says Jodi. They also work with the local department of corrections, which sends a work group out that helps set up the cots, tables, and anything else that might be needed to turn the facility into a shelter. "They keep C Cans [storage/shipping containers] onsite for the entire summer just so they can expedite the process," says Jodi. "They are immediately able to start moving items in, so they have all the cots and blankets, clothes, and personal service items ready to go." Meanwhile, work begins to feed the evacuees with one of the four fields designated for food service. "We work with the University or the local exhibition grounds that have large kitchens; they provide all the food. It's transported to the site, and the Salvation Army is responsible for serving the food and cleaning up after." Another local provider brings in the tables and chairs. Not everyone who is evacuated will stay at the facility. The Red Cross and Department of Health identify older people, people with health issues, or women by Michael Horn

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