The British Columbia Automobile Association (BCAA) is investing $750,000 over three years to expand mental health support for wildfire-affected communities through a new partnership with the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) in B.C., according to an Oct. 6 announcement.
The initiative, called BCAA & CMHA BC Beyond Wildfires, marks the first time BCAA is extending its mental health support beyond first responders directly into affected communities.
“When a wildfire is contained, the recovery for individuals, families and communities is often only the beginning,” said Jonny Morris, CEO of CMHA BC, in a statement. “Mental health impacts can emerge immediately or months and even years later. Through this generous partnership with BCAA, we can work alongside communities to strengthen the supports people need not only to recover, but to prepare for future emergencies and build resilience over the long term.”
The program will initially focus on Vernon, the Cariboo Chilcotin region and northern B.C., providing resources tailored to local needs.
In Vernon, initiatives will include youth workshops, community partnerships and recovery efforts following the Bradley Creek wildfire. In Williams Lake, families will have access to wellness and resilience programs, while communities around Prince George will benefit from more accessible counselling services.
The partnership will also expand CMHA BC’s Resilient Minds mental health training program to volunteer firefighters, building on BCAA’s existing support for emergency responders.
BCAA has also raised more than $165,000 through its 2026 Fireweed Pin campaign, with proceeds supporting the First Nations’ Emergency Services Society and CMHA BC.
